Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pizza Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Toppings:

Shredded mozzarella cheese

Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)

Instructions:

For the Pizza Dough:

Activate Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.

Knead Dough:

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Punch Down and Rest:

Punch down the dough, divide it in half if making two pizzas, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Roll Out Dough:

Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface.

For the Pizza Sauce:

Cook Aromatics:

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Blend (Optional):

For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

Prepare Toppings:

Precook any raw toppings that require it, like sausage or mushrooms.

Assemble Pizza:

Place rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a layer of sauce, add cheese, and arrange your desired toppings.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Serve:

 

Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, slice, and enjoy!

• Share this post: