Veggie Pizza

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Pizza Dough

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and 3/4 tsp of salt.
   • Add the dry ingredients and 2 tbsp of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
2. 2

   Preheat Oven and Prepare Toppings

   • About 30 minutes before the dough is ready, place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet on the middle rack of your oven. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
   • While the oven preheats, prepare your vegetables: thinly slice the onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, and olives.
3. 3

   Shape and Assemble the Pizza

   • Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, stretch and press the dough into a 12-inch circle, leaving a slightly thicker edge for the crust.
   • Sprinkle the cornmeal onto a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper and place the shaped dough on top.
   • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
   • Evenly distribute the sliced red onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, and black olives over the cheese.
   • Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
   • Brush the crust edge with the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil for a golden finish.
4. 4

   Bake the Pizza

   • Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment paper, if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. 5

   Rest and Serve

   • Using a pizza peel or tongs, carefully remove the pizza from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
   • Let it rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set and prevents toppings from sliding off.
   • Cut into 8 slices and serve immediately.