In a small bowl, mix first 3 ingredients. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.

In a large bowl, combine salt, flour (no need to use the full quantity - use enough flour to make a stiff dough), sugar oil, and the second 2/3 cup of warm water.

Mix together yeast and flour mixture and knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Place dough into an oiled bowl and turn once to coat with oil. Cover and let rise until doubled in size (about 45 minutes to 1 hour).

Sprinkle a pan with cornmeal or semolina flour. Press dough out with your fingertips (or roll out) into a circle (or use a square cookie sheet for Sicilian style pizza).

Brush with olive oil and spread with your favorite toppings (pizza sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers and onions are a few suggestions).

Bake at 350°F-400°F for 15-20 minutes or until edges are golden and lightly browned in spots and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Makes 1 large pizza.

Submitted by: CM