Veggie Delight: The Best Vegetable Pizza Toppings

🥕 Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp instant yeast

• ¾ cup warm water

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:

• ¾ cup tomato pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Suggested vegetable toppings:

• ½ red bell pepper, sliced

• ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced

• ½ zucchini or green squash, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup black olives, sliced

• A few cherry tomatoes, halved

• 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Optional: spinach leaves, corn, or broccoli florets

For garnish (optional):

• Dried oregano or basil

• Chili flakes

• Olive oil drizzle

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   Mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Add warm water and olive oil. Knead for 8–10 minutes until dough is soft and elastic. Let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours.

2. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 250°C (480°F). Place a pizza stone or tray inside to preheat.

3. Shape the Dough:
   Roll or stretch the dough into a round shape (10–12 inches). Place it on a floured baking tray or pizza peel.

4. Prepare the Sauce:
   Mix tomato sauce with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread a thin layer over the dough.

5. Add Cheese and Vegetables:
   Sprinkle shredded mozzarella first, then layer your choice of vegetables evenly. Try to balance colors and textures—don’t overload one spot.

6. Bake the Pizza:
   Bake in the hot oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the crust turns golden.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   After baking, add a sprinkle of oregano or chili flakes and drizzle with olive oil. Slice and enjoy your veggie-packed delight!