Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix the water, sugar and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes, or until bubbly. Add 1/2 cup flour, the salt, olive oil, herbs and pepper and mix, on medium speed, for a minute or two. Gradually add the rest of the flour, mixing on low speed until all of the flour is incorporated, and the dough starts to pull away from the bowl, about 6 minutes. Grease a clean bowl, and transfer the dough to the greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for an hour.

Press the dough down, and transfer to a baking sheet (or a pizza stone, your call). Form the dough into a loaf shape, cover with the towel, and let the dough rise for another hour. Carefully remove the towel (some of the dough may want to cling to it), and bake the dough at 375° for about 30 minutes.