PIZZA FROM SCRATCH

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast

1 Cup warm water (110° to 115°)

2 Tablespoons canola oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

2 3/4 to 3 1/4 Cups all-purpose flour

Pizza sauce ingredients:

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

1/2 Cup finely  chopped onion

3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Pizza topping ingredients:

1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage, cooked and drained OPTIONAL

1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained OPTIONAL

1 medium green pepper, sliced OPTIONAL

1 1/2 Cups (6 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions:

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add oil, salt, sugar and 2 Cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rest in a warm place for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine sauce ingredients; set aside. Divide dough in half. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a 13 inch circle. Transfer to greased 12 inch pizza pans and build up edges slightly. Prick dough thoroughly with a fork.

Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Spread sauce over hot crusts to within 2 inches of edge and sprinkle with the sausage, mushrooms, green pepper and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Makes 2 pizzas that serve 8 people (serving size: 2 slices each).