Vegetarian pizza is a delightful and healthy option that's loaded with fresh vegetables and topped with gooey melted cheese. It's perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without any meat. Here's how you can make a delicious vegetarian pizza at home.

Ingredients

For the dough:

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

For the toppings:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the mixture begins to come together.

3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until 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 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle. If you're using a pizza stone, place the dough on a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer.

3. Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Add the Cheese and Vegetables: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Evenly distribute the bell peppers, red onion, mushrooms, black olives, cherry tomatoes, and spinach leaves on top of the cheese.

5. Season and Bake: Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the pizza. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

6. Finish with Parmesan: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Serving

Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. The combination of fresh vegetables, melty cheese, and a crispy crust makes this vegetarian pizza a delicious and healthy choice.

Tips for the Perfect Vegetarian Pizza

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Hot Oven: A very hot oven helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Balance of Toppings: Distribute the vegetables evenly to ensure each slice has a balanced mix of flavors.

Enjoy your homemade Vegetarian Pizza with friends and family, and savor the delightful combination of fresh ingredients and cheesy goodness. Happy cooking!

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