Classic Herbed Pizza Dough

• 1 cup warm water (around 110 to 115 degrees)
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoon basil (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fennel seed(optional)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper (optional)

1. In a small bowl combine water, sugar and yeast.  Whisk well and allow yeast to bloom and double in size for 10 min.
2. While yeast is blooming, in a large bowl combine all of the remaining ingredients except olive oil.  Whisk to combine.
3. After yeast has activated, add it to your dry ingredients along with 1 T Olive Oil.  Mix roughly with your hands until a shaggy ball begins to form.  Transfer dough to a lightly floured work space and knead for 10 min until smooth.  Lightly grease the large mixing bowl with olive oil and transfer dough to it, rolling the dough around a bit to lightly coat it with oil.
4. Place bowl in a warm spot and let dough rise for around 45 min to an hour or until doubled in size.  Punch dough down and then shape to fit your pan.