Vegetarian Garden Pizza: A Colorful Feast

 

Ingredients:

 

For the Dough:

 

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings:

 

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

 

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

 

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.

 

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.

 

Assemble the Pizza

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.

 

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

 

Arrange the bell peppers, red onion, mushrooms, and black olives on top of the cheese.

 

Bake the Pizza

Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

 

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.

 

Decoration Tips:

 

Sprinkle a light drizzle of olive oil over the pizza before serving for added flavor.

Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look.

Add a side of chili flakes and grated Parmesan for guests to customize their slices.

Happy Baking