Mini Vegetable Pizzas

Mini Vegetable Pizzas

Ingredients:

**For the Dough:**
– 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
– 2 1/2 cups (320g) all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt

**For the Toppings:**

– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onions
– 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped black olives (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
– Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. **Prepare the Toppings:**
– In a bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, black olives (if using), and fresh basil or parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.

4. **Shape the Dough:**
– Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a small circle about 1/4 inch thick.
– Place the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet.

5. **Assemble the Pizzas:**
– Spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce on each dough circle. Sprinkle a little shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
– Spoon the vegetable mixture evenly over each pizza. Top with more mozzarella cheese if desired.

6. **Bake:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. **Serve:**
– Remove the mini pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm.