Pizza recipe

Ingredients:

For the dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)

3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

For the sauce:

1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)

1 clove garlic (minced)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Toppings (adjust based on preference):

2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Pepperoni slices

Mushrooms

Green bell peppers (sliced)

Black olives (sliced)

Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir lightly and let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a large bowl, mix 3 ½ cups of flour with salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, gradually add more flour.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

3. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions for two pizzas.

Roll out one portion on a floured surface until it's about 12 inches in diameter (thinner for a crispier crust).

Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.

Spread a thin layer of prepared sauce on the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.

Add your toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, green bell peppers, and black olives.

5. Bake the Pizza:

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Slice and enjoy!

This recipe will make two 12-inch pizzas. Adjust the toppings to your preference!