Pizza!

Since the shelter in place was announced, I’ve been making some simple staples regularly. One of these staples is PIZZA! It’s easy, delicious, and requires few ingredients. My favorite way to make pizza is to use random ingredients from my fridge and pantry. Some of my best pizzas are created this way.

I DO follow a basic recipe for my pizza dough, as I’ve learned that this needs to be a good foundation. Winging it works, but a bit of prep makes it so much better. This recipe is really simple and you most likely have all the ingredients.

The Stuff:

• 1 2/3 c water
• 2 tsp yeast
• 1/4 c olive oil
• 5 c flour
• 2 tsp salt

The How:

Mix water and yeast together in a bowl and let stand for a few minutes. Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Knead for 5-6 minutes, until the dough is smooth. Divide into 4-6 balls (depending on number of pizzas) and transfer to a well oiled baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1.5- 2 hours.

At this point, use the dough or refrigerate or freeze for later use.

To make the pizza: Pre-heat oven (or grill) to 450 F and begin heating a pizza stone, if you have one. Roll out the dough, 1 pizza at a time, on a well floured surface. Stretch, pull, toss, to shape the dough.

Before baking, reduce the temperature to 400 F and slide pizza onto the stone. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until crust begins to brown (time may depend on crust thickness & oven).

Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing. I like to drizzle a thick balsamic vinegar or olive oil on top. Serve with your favorite vino!