Homemade Pizza Fresh Toppings (Print Version)

Craft classic homemade pizza with a golden crust, zesty tomato sauce, cheese, and favorite fresh toppings.

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
02 - 1 1/2 cups warm water
03 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

→ Sauce

07 - 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

13 - Shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - Pepperoni slices
15 - Sliced bell peppers
16 - Sliced onions
17 - Sliced mushrooms
18 - Fresh basil leaves

# Steps:

01 - In a bowl, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water and allow to stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add all-purpose flour, olive oil, salt, and granulated sugar to the yeast mixture. Combine until a cohesive dough forms.
03 - Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
04 - Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Gently punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to desired thickness.
05 - In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Spread prepared sauce evenly over rolled-out dough, leaving a border for the crust.
07 - Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by pepperoni slices, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and any additional desired toppings.
08 - Transfer assembled pizza to oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
09 - Remove pizza from oven, top with fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure dough is well-kneaded to achieve a chewy and crisp crust.
02 - Preheating the oven thoroughly helps to create a restaurant-quality base.