Pizza bites

Pizza Bites - An Unforgettable Delicacy

If you are a pizza lover but would like to try a smaller and more versatile version, pizza bites are exactly what you need! These appetizers are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly tasty, quickly becoming everyone's favorites. Whether you serve them at a party, as an appetizer, or even as a light meal, pizza bites are an excellent choice. Let's start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 bites

Ingredients
- 150 g of flour (preferably type 000 or 650 for a fine texture)
- 90 ml of sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 50 ml of warm water
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 small teaspoon of baking powder (or 15 g of fresh yeast)
- 1 egg for brushing
- 4-5 tablespoons of tomato sauce (or zacusca sauce for a different variant)
- 100 g of speck or ham (optional, you can also use salami or prosciutto)
- 100 g of cheese (mozzarella, feta, or cheese, depending on preferences)
- Dried oregano (for an extra flavor)

Step by step preparation

1. Preparing the dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to eliminate any lumps and achieve a uniform dough. Add the salt and yeast, mixing the dry ingredients well. In another container, combine the warm water with the sunflower oil. Then pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and mix with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough.

2. Kneading the dough
Once the ingredients are combined, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you feel the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Let it rise at room temperature, covered with a damp towel, for 20-30 minutes until it doubles in volume.

3. Preparing the molds
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. While the dough is rising, prepare the molds for the bites. You can use muffin or tart molds, greasing them with a little oil and dusting with flour to prevent sticking.

4. Forming the bites
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface until you achieve a thickness of about 5 mm. Cut circles from the dough using a glass or cutter, then place each circle into the prepared molds. Use a fork to make a few holes in the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Adding the ingredients
On each bite, place a tablespoon of tomato sauce mixed with a little olive oil and salt. Add slices of speck and cheese, sprinkle dried oregano, and if you like, an additional layer of zacusca sauce on some of them for an unusual taste.

6. The next step
Beat the egg and brush the edges of the bites with it. This step will ensure a nicely browned crust and an appetizing appearance. Then, bake them in the oven for about 20 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

7. Serving
When the bites are ready, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the molds. You can serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt sauce for a contrast of flavors. These bites are also excellent at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or picnics.

Useful tips
- Ingredient variations: Be creative! You can replace the speck with roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or meats of your choice. Also, the cheese can be adapted according to preferences: goat cheese or brie for a more sophisticated taste.
- Sauces: Experiment with different sauces! A pesto sauce or a garlic yogurt sauce pairs perfectly with these bites.
- Number of servings: You can adjust the quantities of ingredients to make more bites, ideal for a festive meal.
- Calories: One bite has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used, but it is a healthier option compared to a regular pizza.

Points of interest
Pizza bites have become popular due to their versatility. They can be adapted with various ingredients, giving them a personal and unique touch. Additionally, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family, bringing joy to every meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough, but making the dough from scratch is a pleasant and healthier experience.
2. Can they be frozen?
Yes, the bites can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer.

These pizza bites are truly an explosion of flavors and colors, making them ideal for any occasion. Don't hesitate to make them and enjoy the positive feedback from your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!