Mini Pizzas Perfect for Cocktail Hour

For a relaxed cocktail gathering, consider serving Cocktail-Hour Pizzette, small, crisp pizzas made for eating with one hand and a drink in the other.

These pizzettes are perfect for a casual get-together, and their simple toppings and high-quality ingredients make them a great choice. They make 12 small pizzas and serve 6 – 8 people.

Their prep time is 25 minutes and cooking time is 8 – 10 minutes.

Ingredients and Method

To make the dough, mix 500g white bread flour, 7g instant yeast, and 1½ tsp salt in a large bowl. Add 325ml lukewarm water and 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, and knead for 8 – 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough and leave it in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. Then, make the sauce by crushing 1 x 400g tin peeled tomatoes and mixing them with 1 garlic clove, finely grated, ½ tsp dried oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Shaping and Topping

Heat the oven to its highest setting – ideally 250°C or higher – with a pizza stone or heavy baking tray inside.

Divide the dough into 12 pieces and roll each into a small, thin round, leaving the edges slightly thicker. Spread each base with a thin layer of tomato sauce.

Add a little mozzarella and two or three toppings, such as prosciutto and rocket, artichoke and olive, or sundried tomato and mozzarella. They are ready to bake.

Bake for 6 – 10 minutes, until the crust is puffed and golden and the cheese is bubbling. Finish with fresh basil, rocket, Parmesan, olive oil, and a pinch of chilli flakes.

Keep the toppings simple and seasonal, using ingredients like prosciutto, olives, artichokes, and good mozzarella. The key is to not overload the pizzas.

Serve the pizzettes warm on a large ceramic platter alongside bowls of olives and Parmesan. For a unique touch, use a good local extra-virgin olive oil for finishing, as its peppery flavor works beautifully with the salty cheese, cured meat, and tomato.

It creates a lively and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed cocktail gathering. With their simple yet elegant ingredients, these Cocktail-Hour Pizzette are sure to be a hit with your guests.