Cheese Pizza with Side Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Pizza Dough

   • In a large bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp instant yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp of salt.
   • Add 1 cup of warm water and 2 tbsp of olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Lightly oil the mixing bowl, place the dough inside, and turn it to coat with oil.
2. 2

   Let the Dough Rise

   • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
   • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
3. 3

   Prepare Sauce and Preheat Oven

   • While the dough rises, prepare the no-cook sauce. In a small bowl, stir together 0.75 cup crushed tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp dried oregano, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Set aside.
   • About 30 minutes before baking, place a pizza stone or steel in the oven (if using) and preheat to 475°F (245°C).
4. 4

   Shape and Assemble the Pizza

   • Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
   • Using your hands, gently stretch the dough into a 12 to 14-inch circle, leaving the outer edge slightly thicker for the crust.
   • Sprinkle a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet with 1 tbsp of cornmeal. Carefully place the stretched dough on top.
   • Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
   • Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. 5

   Bake the Pizza

   • Carefully slide the pizza from the peel onto the preheated pizza stone or place your pan in the oven.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. 6

   Rest and Serve

   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 3-5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set.
   • Garnish with optional grated Parmesan cheese, slice, and serve immediately.