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Vegetarian pizza recipe

Vegetarian pizza

Vegetarian pizza is a popular and versatile dish featuring a crispy crust topped with a vibrant array of vegetables. Common toppings include bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, olives, spinach, and zucchini, often layered over a base of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This meat-free pizza can be customized with various herbs and seasonings, offering a delicious and healthy option that appeals to vegetarians and pizza lovers alike. Whether enjoyed as a simple Margherita with fresh basil or loaded with a medley of colorful veggies, vegetarian pizza is a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Ingredients
  

For the pizza dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water 110°F
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

For the pizza sauce:

  • 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the toppings:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 small zucchini thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pizza Dough:

  • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  • Mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Pizza Sauce:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.

Assemble the Pizza:

  • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
  • Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if not using a pizza stone.
  • Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  • Arrange the sliced bell pepper, red onion, mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and black olives evenly over the cheese.
  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the vegetables.

Bake the Pizza:

  • Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone if using).
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired.
  • Slice and serve hot.