Sicilian Pizza (Vegetarian)

Submitted by Annabelle from SC

"Add your favorite toppings to suit your family's taste. Note: For thinner, crispier crust, split dough into two equal parts; press onto 2 (12-inch) round pizza pans. Proceed with recipe as directed. Traditionally, this recipe is made in a rectangular shape."

Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 (.25 ounce) envelope active dry yeast
2 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 1/2 cups warm water (100 to 110 degrees)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Toppings: chopped onion, green or red bell pepper rings, shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded fresh basil
Garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs

Directions:
1. COMBINE 2 cups flour, yeast, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt in a large mixing bowl; stir in 1 1/2 cups warm water and vegetable oil.

2. BEAT at low speed with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes; beat at high speed 3 minutes. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make dough stiff.

3. TURN dough out onto a well-floured surface, and knead until smooth and elastic (about 5 minutes). Place in a well-greased bowl, turning to grease top.

4. COVER and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.

5. PUNCH dough down, and press onto a lightly greased 12-inch round pizza pan or into a 15- x 10-inch jellyroll pan.

6. COVER and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, 45 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

7. SAUTE onion and garlic in hot olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until tender. Add remaining 1 teaspoon salt, tomatoes, and next 6 ingredients.

8. BRING to a boil; cook, covered, over medium heat 10 minutes. Spoon sauce over dough.

9. BAKE at 475 degrees for 20 minutes. Sprinkle evenly with desired toppings; bake 10 to 15 more minutes. Garnish, if desired.

Groups:
Vegetarian, Pizza, Italian, Main Dish

Preparation Time:
2 hours

Cooking Time:
20 mins

Servings:
4-6