Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the pizza dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the pizza sauce:

• 1lb crushed tomatoes (5-6 medium tomatoes)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Any garden veggies the toppings, preserved or fresh:

• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced bell peppers
• Sliced mushrooms
• Sliced onions
• Fresh basil leaves
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Make the pizza dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • 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.
   • Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the pizza sauce:
   • In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or an upside-down baking sheet in the oven to preheat.
4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion of dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
5. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
6. Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Add your desired toppings, such as sliced fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
8. Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment paper if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
9. Bake the pizza for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.