Pizza Dough

For years, I’ve been a fan of pizza dough from the Publix Bakery. But recently I have been on the search for a simple and delicious recipe to make it myself. Some of my reasoning is to save a little money, but another motivation is that this way we can have pizza whenever, even if I don’t make it to the store. I love this recipe because it requires minimal ingredients, comes together very easily, and makes enough for three pizzas. (Just wrap what you don’t need in plastic wrap, then put it into a zip-top bag, and throw it in the freezer.) The only trick is that you have to allow time for the dough to rise, but it’s worth it. Enjoy!

Pizza Dough
1 1/2 cups warm water
1 (1/4-oz.) packet active dry yeast
5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1 1/2 tsp. salt
Olive oil

1. Combine yeast in warm water, stirring until dissolved.
2. Stir together flour and salt; add in yeast mixture. Stir until a loose dough forms.
3. Place dough onto a lightly floured board, and knead dough until it becomes elastic and smooth. Divide into thirds. Place each dough round in a bowl lightly greased with olive oil. Cover dough rounds with a damp cloth or paper towel. Place in a warm, draft-free place for 2 hours or until dough has doubled in bulk.
4. Punch dough down, and return to bowls; cover with damp cloth. Allow to rise for 1 more hour. Punch dough down, and roll to desired thickness.

Baking instructions: Top dough with desired toppings. Bake at 400° for 15 to 20 minutes or until done.