Italian Thin Crust Cheese Pizza

FOR THE SAUCE

Step 1: Drain tomatoes well in a colander.

Step 2: Pour into a non-reactive bowl.

Step 3: Add olive oil, sugar, and garlic, and then add fresh herbs.

Step 4: Mix together and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

FOR THE DOUGH

Step 5: In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.

Step 6: In a smaller bowl, mix together the water and oil.

Step 7: Add to dry mixture and mix well.

Step 8: Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Step 9: Oil a glass bowl and place dough in the bowl.

Step 10: Cover with plastic wrap.

Step 11: Place the bowl in a warm draft-free place for about 40 minutes, until doubled in size.

Step 12: Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 13: Strain the sauce mixture.

Step 14: Oil a 16” round pizza pan and spread the dough out on the pan.

Step 15: Stab here and there with a fork and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 16: Spread sauce to about 1 inch from the edges.

Step 17: Top with mozzarella cheese about 1 inch from the edges.

Step 18: Bake for 10 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. (Every oven cooks differently, so watch this carefully as it can burn quite quickly)

Step 19: Broil until the cheese starts to bubble.

Step 20: Allow to cool a bit, before slicing.