Basic Pizza Dough

Directions

1. 1
   Whisk 1 1/3 cups warm water (105 degrees F) and the sugar in a bowl; sprinkle the yeast on top.
2. 2
   Set aside until foamy, about 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Stir in the olive oil.
4. 4
   Whisk the flour and salt in a large bowl.
5. 5
   Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture.
6. 6
   Gradually stir with a wooden spoon to make a rough dough.
7. 7
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
8. 8
   Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes, dusting with more flour if necessary.
9. 9
   Form into 2 balls.
10. 10
    Brush 2 large bowls with olive oil, add a ball of dough to each and turn to coat with the oil.
11. 11
    Cover tightly with plastic wrap and set aside at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour, 30 minutes.
12. 12
    Roll out and top as desired, or wrap in plastic wrap and freeze up to 1 month.
13. 13
    Photograph by Con Poulos