Mini spinach and cottage cheese pizzas

Mini spinach and cottage cheese pizzettes - A delightful treat that's easy to prepare

When it comes to quick snacks, mini pizzettes with spinach and cottage cheese are true stars! These little delights are not only delicious but also very versatile, allowing customization according to individual preferences. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result, so you can impress your family and friends. Let's get started!

Preparation time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (approximately 12 mini pizzettes)

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 220 g wheat flour (preferably type 650)
- 1 tablespoon lard (or butter, depending on preference)
- 50 ml warm water
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 200 g fresh spinach (or frozen if unavailable)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for a more intense flavor, use homemade)
- 2 tablespoons pepper paste or finely chopped fresh pepper
- 3-4 slices of cottage cheese (or feta cheese for a stronger flavor)
- A pinch of salt (to taste)

A brief history of the recipe:
Mini pizzettes, also known as "pizzette," became popular due to their versatility. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from vegetables to meat, and are perfect for a quick snack or a party. Combining spinach with cottage cheese is not just a delicious choice but also a healthy one, considering the nutritional benefits of these ingredients.

Step by step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a large bowl, add the flour and a pinch of salt. Gently mix the dry ingredients to combine.
2. Add the lard cut into small cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the lard into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring continuously until the dough starts to form. If necessary, add a little more flour until the dough becomes non-sticky and easy to handle.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes on a floured surface until it becomes elastic and smooth. Let it rest covered with a clean towel.

Step 2: Preparing the spinach
1. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the cleaned spinach. Turn off the heat after 5-6 minutes of blanching.
2. Remove the spinach from the water and let it cool slightly. Then, chop it finely and squeeze it well to remove excess water.

Step 3: Assembling the pizzettes
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 5 mm. Use a large glass to cut circles from the dough.
3. Place each dough circle on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush each circle with a thin layer of tomato paste, then add the chopped spinach.
5. Sprinkle the pepper paste or finely chopped pepper and the cubes of cottage cheese on top.
6. Add a pinch of salt on each pizzetta, to taste.

Step 4: Baking
1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dough turns golden and crispy.
2. Once done, remove the pizzettes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions:
These mini pizzettes with spinach and cottage cheese are excellent warm, but can also be served cold, making them ideal for a picnic or a party. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Variations:
Feel free to experiment! You can add other vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or mushrooms. Additionally, replacing cottage cheese with feta or mozzarella will offer a different and interesting taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to squeeze it well before adding it to the filling.
- How can I make the dough crispier? One alternative would be to add a teaspoon of baking powder to the dough for a more airy texture.
- Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making this recipe perfect for vegetarians.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Combined with cottage cheese, these mini pizzettes are not only delicious but also provide a considerable nutritional boost.

Conclusion:
Mini pizzettes with spinach and cottage cheese are a perfect choice for a quick and healthy snack. Whether you're preparing them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, this recipe will delight you with its delicious flavors. So, don't wait any longer! Put on your apron and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients: 220 g flour, 1 tablespoon of lard, 50 ml warm water. Filling ingredients: spinach, 2 tablespoons of broth, 2 tablespoons of pepper paste or finely chopped fresh pepper, 3-4 slices of cheese.