SafePlates

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative, see note below)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the top, and let stand for about 10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Stir the extra virgin olive oil, salt, and flour into the yeast mixture. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Place in a well-oiled bowl, and cover with a cloth. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or lightly greased pizza pan.
4. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the prepared dough. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
5. Top with vegan mozzarella, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and mushrooms.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked. Check that the crust is crispy and the toppings are slightly charred.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired. Optional garnishes include a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of vegan pesto for added flavor.

Tip

If using gluten-free flour, you may need to adjust the amount of water slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently. Start with the recommended amount and add more if the dough seems too dry.