Pizza dough

Method

For the base:

Put yeast into a jug with the lukewarm water and the oil and stir until it has dissolved. Place the flour and salt in a large bowl (if you are using a mixer, use the dough hook). Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until it all comes together in one smooth and elastic ball - the dough should feel soft and pliable but not sticky - you may need to add a little more flour. Brush with a little olive oil and cover with a tea towel. Place in a warm draught-free place to rise for 90 minutes - the dough will double in size.

Punch down and lightly knead to bring together. Cover again and allow to rise another 30 minutes.

Photo: Marina Oliphant

You are now ready to roll your pizza bases.

Have your pizza oven on or heat your normal oven to 220C.

To assemble:

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and cover with a tea towel so they don't dry out.

Sprinkle a little flour onto the bench and roll out a piece of dough with a rolling pin until it is about 5mm to 10mm thick (depends if you like a thick or thin crust).

Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the base spreading it with your hand. Add a few tablespoons of tomato sauce to thinly cover the base, but don't go all the way to the edges and start your topping.

We like:

prosciutto, basil, olives and mozzarella; salami, artichokes, pesto and mozzarella; peas, pancetta or bacon and mozzarella