This easy-to-make mini pizza recipe features a soft and fluffy dough topped with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, and your favorite cheese. It’s perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or a fun dinner.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus dough rising time: 1 hour)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- While the dough is rising, slice the tomatoes and bell peppers. Set them aside.
- Shape the Mini Pizzas:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a small circle or oval about 4–5 inches in diameter.
- Place the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Assemble the Mini Pizzas:
- Spread a spoonful of tomato sauce over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top with sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle dried oregano and chili flakes (if using) over the toppings.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the dough are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the mini pizzas cool slightly. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a bowl of marinara or garlic dipping sauce.
- Add additional toppings like olives, mushrooms, or cooked chicken for variety.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, bake the pizzas on a preheated pizza stone or a perforated pizza pan.
- Make the dough ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before using.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier, richer flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C.
- Bell Peppers: Excellent source of vitamins A and C, and fiber.
- Homemade Dough: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan Option: Substitute mozzarella cheese with a plant-based alternative.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftover pizzas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze unbaked mini pizzas with toppings for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Customizable toppings for endless variety.
- Perfect for meal prep, parties, or kids’ snacks.
- Simple and quick to prepare with wholesome ingredients.
Conclusion
Mini pizzas with tomatoes and bell peppers are a crowd-pleaser that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with a cheesy, flavorful base. This versatile recipe is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works great for this recipe if you’re short on time. - What other toppings can I add?
Try mushrooms, olives, onions, cooked sausage, or spinach. - How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Use parchment paper or lightly flour your baking sheet. - Can I make the dough gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. - Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, drained and sliced canned tomatoes work well. - How do I make the base crispier?
Bake on a preheated pizza stone or perforated pizza pan. - Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze the dough in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. - What cheese alternatives can I use?
Try provolone, gouda, or a vegan cheese option. - Can I prepare these on a grill?
Yes, grill the pizzas on medium heat for about 5 minutes per side. - How do I store leftover mini pizzas?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.