Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
For the Tomato Sauce:
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
1/2 cup sliced red onions
1 cup spinach leaves
1 cup vegan cheese (try mozzarella-style or any other vegan cheese you prefer)
Optional: sliced olives, artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, vegan pepperoni slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and 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 the dough comes together, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface.
Transfer the rolled-out dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Scatter your desired toppings over the sauce. You can get creative here!
Sprinkle vegan cheese evenly over the pizza.
4. Bake:
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.