Mini pizzas with tomatoes and basil

Tomato and Basil Pizzette: A Culinary Delight in Miniature

Who doesn't love the aroma of a freshly baked pizza? Today, however, I’m offering you a smaller yet equally delicious version: pizzette with tomatoes and basil. These mini pizzas are perfect for a snack, an appetizer, or even a family meal. Whether you're serving them at a party or simply want to treat yourself, these pizzette will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes
Servings: 5 pizzette

Ingredients needed:

For the dough:
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- 80 g whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 30 g cold butter, diced
- 25 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 120 ml milk

For the topping:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and finely chopped
- 6 halves of sun-dried tomatoes, preserved in oil
- 1/2 bunch of fresh basil, leaves torn
- 3 large plum tomatoes, sliced thinly
- 30 g shelled sunflower seeds

Let’s start our culinary adventure!

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, mix the two types of flour, baking powder, and salt. It’s essential to use a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a healthier and tastier dough. Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to incorporate it until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This technique is crucial for maintaining the fluffy texture of the dough.

2. Adding the wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the cold milk. This is the stage where the dough will begin to take shape. Knead with your hands until you obtain a soft, non-sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it!

3. Shaping the pizzette: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 mm. Using a 10 cm diameter cup, cut out 5 discs of dough. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a 6 cm space between them. Use a fork to shape the edges of the discs for a rustic look and to prevent the topping from spreading.

4. Preparing the topping: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped garlic, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Mix all the ingredients well, then brush each dough disc with this aromatic mixture, making sure to leave a narrow unbrushed edge.

5. Adding the fresh tomatoes: Wash the plum tomatoes, slice them thinly, and arrange them on each disc. These tomatoes add freshness and a sweet-tangy flavor that perfectly complements the Mediterranean aromas of basil and garlic.

6. Baking the pizzette: Preheat the oven to 200°C (or 180°C with fan). Place the tray in the oven for 7 minutes, then add the shelled sunflower seeds, which will add a delicious crunch. Continue baking for another 5 minutes or until the edges of the pizzette turn golden.

7. Serving: The mini pizzette with tomatoes and basil are best served warm, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves on top. They are perfect for sharing with friends or family, accompanied by a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Helpful tips:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a distinct flavor.
- If you enjoy bolder flavors, you can add some sliced black olives or chili peppers on top.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the taste will be different.
- Pizzette can also be made with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
These pizzette are a healthy choice due to their simple, natural ingredients. Whole wheat flour provides essential fiber, while tomatoes and basil are rich in antioxidants. Parmesan adds protein and calcium, and sunflower seeds are an excellent source of healthy fats.

Approximate calories per pizzetta: 150-200, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free option, but you may need to adjust the liquid quantities.
- How can I store the pizzette? You can store uncooked pizzette in the fridge for a day or freeze them, then bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Can I make the pizzette vegan? Yes, you can replace the butter with vegan margarine and the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or soy milk.

So, dear cooking enthusiasts, don’t hesitate to try this recipe for pizzette with tomatoes and basil. It’s a wonderful way to explore Mediterranean flavors and surprise your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Remember, cooking is an art, but also a great joy, and these pizzette are perfect for bringing a touch of happiness to your kitchen!