Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough

• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (about 40–43°C / 105–110°F)
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Pizza Sauce

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Vegan Cheese

• 1 to 1½ cups shredded vegan mozzarella-style cheese

Veggie Toppings

Choose your favorites. A colorful combination:

• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (for vegetables)

Optional Seasonings

• Red chili flakes
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic powder

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Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
3. Add flour, olive oil, and salt.
4. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place in a lightly oiled bowl.
7. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. For a richer flavor, simmer for 10–15 minutes over low heat.
3. Allow to cool before spreading on the pizza.

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Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and slice all vegetables.
2. Toss mushrooms, peppers, and onions with 1 teaspoon olive oil.
3. Optionally sauté them for 3–4 minutes to remove excess moisture and intensify flavor.

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Step 4: Shape the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 240°C (465°F) for at least 20–30 minutes.
2. If using a pizza stone, preheat it as well.
3. Punch down the risen dough.
4. Roll or stretch into a 12-inch circle.
5. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking tray or pizza peel.

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Step 5: Assemble

1. Spread ½–¾ cup pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
2. Sprinkle vegan cheese evenly.
3. Arrange vegetables across the pizza.
4. Add a pinch of oregano and garlic powder.

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Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 12–15 minutes at 240°C (465°F), or until:
  • Crust is golden brown.
  • Cheese is melted.
  • Vegetables are lightly roasted.

If using a regular baking tray instead of a pizza stone, baking may take 15–18 minutes.

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Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with:

• Fresh basil
• Red chili flakes
• Extra virgin olive oil (optional)

Let rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing.

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Quick Cashew Vegan Cheese (Optional Homemade Version)

Blend until smooth:

• 1 cup soaked cashews
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Spread small dollops over the pizza before baking instead of store-bought vegan cheese.

Tips for the Best Vegan Pizza

• Use high oven heat for a crisp crust.
• Don’t overload with wet vegetables.
• Pre-cook mushrooms if they release a lot of water.
• A pizza stone or steel gives the best restaurant-style crust.
• Add spinach during the last 3–4 minutes of baking to keep it vibrant.