MAKE-YOUR-OWN CHEESE PIZZA

SERVES 1 LARGE PIZZA WITH EXTRA SAUCE

PIZZA SAUCE

One 425g (15oz) can no-salt- added tomato sauce

One 170g (6oz). can no-salt- added tomato paste

1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried oregano

2 pinches of garlic powder

1/2 cup water

Salt and black pepper to taste

PIZZA

1 or more individual store-bought pizza crusts (or you can use your favorite pizza dough recipe—most are vegan; use gluten-free if necessary)

Basic Cashew Cheese Sauce

Assorted pizza toppings, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, red onion, artichoke hearts, chopped fresh tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, olives, pineapple, chopped fresh basil

Sliced vegan sausage, chopped chickenless strips, or beefless crumbles, optional

NUTRITIONAL VALUES

Calories: 516kcal
Fat: 17.2g (2.4g S.Fat)
Carbs: 80.6g
Protein: 24.4g
Sugar: 36.8g
Sodium: 1650mg

METHOD

To make the pizza sauce, bring the tomato sauce, tomato paste, olive oil, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and water to a boil in a medium pot. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

While the sauce is simmering, preheat the oven and prepare your pizza crust(s) or pizza dough recipe according to package directions. Prepare your toppings and place them on a tray or on the counter in preparation for the teens' invasion.

When the oven is hot, spread the sauce over the crust(s), leaving a 1 inch border around the perimeter. Drizzle or spoon the cheese sauce on top, using as much or as little as you want. Everyone can make their own individual pizzas if the crusts are small enough. If the crusts are large enough, you can let each person top half of a pizza with their favorite toppings.

Bake the pizza(s) according to the directions on the package. When the pizza(s) are done, remove them from the oven, slice them, and serve.