For the Pizza Dough (Optional, or Use Store-Bought Dough):
🍞 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier option)
🥄 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
🧂 ½ teaspoon salt
🍯 1 teaspoon maple syrup or sugar (to activate yeast)
💧 ¾ cup warm water
🛢 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Tomato Sauce:
🍅 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or canned tomato sauce)
🧄 2 cloves garlic (minced)
🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
🌱 ½ teaspoon dried basil
🧂 Salt & pepper to taste
For the Vegan Cheese Options:
🧀 Store-bought vegan cheese (mozzarella-style) OR
🥥 1 cup cashew or coconut-based vegan cheese sauce
Toppings (Customizable!):
🫑 Bell peppers (sliced)
🧅 Red onion (thinly sliced)
🍄 Mushrooms (sliced)
🍅 Cherry tomatoes (halved)
🫒 Black olives (pitted, sliced)
🌿 Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
2. Instructions
📌 1. Make the Pizza Dough (Skip if Using Store-Bought Dough)
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and maple syrup. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead for 5-7 minutes, then cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
📌 2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic, cook for 30 seconds, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
📌 3. Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough into a circle and transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle with vegan cheese and add your favorite toppings.
📌 4. Bake Until Golden & Crispy
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
📌 5. Garnish & Serve!
- Sprinkle with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Slice and enjoy your homemade vegan pizza!
