Mozzarella pizza

Here’s a simple and delicious Mozzarella Pizza recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

For the Pizza Sauce:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• Optional: sliced tomatoes, olives, or any other favorite toppings

Instructions:

Make the Pizza Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough:
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let it Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Pizza Sauce:

5. Mix the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake the Pizza:

6. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
7. Shape the Dough:
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions (for two pizzas) or leave it whole for a larger pizza. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
8. Add the Sauce and Toppings:
   Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Add any additional toppings if desired.
9. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Slice and serve.

Enjoy your homemade Mozzarella Pizza!