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By Gatherings Gal
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May 30, 2011
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 Do you have family pizza nights? My husband and I do. We are pizza fanatics!
But, instead of ordering takeout or popping a frozen version in the oven, we make our own pizza. Not only does it taste so much better, it also costs a lot less. And it is so easy, you can do it, too.
Trust me. You can do it. Get out your apron and chef's hat and join me for a pizza making journey.
How?
Start with the crust
- Mix together 1 teaspoon dry instant yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar and 3/4 cup warm water. Set aside for five minutes.
- Mix 2 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and 1/4 cup oil and stir.
- Transfer to a floured board and knead for approximately five minutes. Place in an oiled bowl and let rise for about an hour.
- At this point, you can also wrap and freeze the crust, if you aren't making the pizza right away. I like to make a few crusts each time and freeze one. (When you want to use the frozen crust, just put the ball of dough in an oiled bowl and let it defrost and rise for a few hours - or even all day while you are at work.)
- Place in the middle of a pizza pan and form gently with your fingers to make the crust. It should be nice and pliable.
- Bake the crust for about 15 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven to avoid soggy crust syndrome. (I hate soggy crusts so I gave the problem my own official name. )
Top it!
This is the fun part. Pick your favorite toppings and make your own custom pie.
- Start by spreading a layer of canned pizza sauce on the crust. (You can substitute alfredo sauce, pesto or even olive oil.)
- Add your favorite veggies and meat. We use crumbled sausage, onion, garlic, olives and fresh mushrooms. Get creative.
- Add the cheese. I like to use mozzarella, but have used cheddar, monterey jack or a pizza mix, too.
Bake for another 20 minutes at 350 degrees or until crust is crispy and brown.
 Let cool for a few minutes and enjoy!
This does take a little longer than a normal freezer variety, but it's so much better and fits your taste exactly, so I think you'll agree that it's worth the time.
It's a fun project for little hands, too. So consider getting your kids involved, especially kneading the dough and topping the crust.
Sound off: What are your favorite pizza toppings?
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By Gatherings Gal
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May 27, 2011
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 Memorial Day is often the time when swimming pools open, beach towels and sunscreen come out of hiding and cannonballs reign.
I think this is when it really feels like summer.
So, it's the perfect time to begin planning your own pool party - at your home or a community pool in your area. Here are a few of my ideas to help get you started.
Overall Ideas:
- Do you want to go a little over-the-top? Pick up inexpensive pair of flip-flop sandals at the dollar store and attach party details to the shoes. Not only will it get the attention of your guests, but everyone can wear their new kicks to the pool.
- Don't have access to a pool? Buy a couple of kiddie pools from the discount store. Kids love them and adults can still put their feet in the water for a refreshing dip. Or bring out the sprinklers and let the fun begin.
- To get adults in the water, consider organizing a pool volleyball tournament. Or try a diving contest or scavenger hunt with rings on the bottom of the pool. (These work great for kids, too.)
Food Ideas:
- I think poolside fare should be simple. Try cold-cut sandwiches, chips and salsa, and cookies. Cut fruit and veggies (like carrot sticks, celery and watermelon) will be huge hits and are also healthy options!
- Don't forget a cooler of fresh drinks to quench your thirst.
Decorating Ideas:
- Make your decor functional by blowing up beach balls or scattering other toys around the pool.
- Sticking to shades of blue for tableware, streamers and balloons adds a subtle nod to the main event - the water.
- If the party is at night, I like to bring out a few tiki torches for a summer glow. Or light candles on tables (an added bonus is that these can keep bugs away).
Gatherings with Purpose Ideas:
- Ask guests to bring a new toy to donate to a local women and children's shelter.
Sound off: "I know summer has arrived when ______________."
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