What are some minimal Linux distros that I can use?

Give Manjaro a shot. A lot of people (me included) believe that it's a preview to what Arch can do while still giving new users decent control when it comes to installing packages (Both official repos and from AURs). Plus if you want it to look nice: https://aptrinh.js.org/manjaro-rice.html

Arch still stays on top when it comes to total control of the distro you're using imo.

older but lightwieght;

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porteus_(operating_system)

billed as under 300MB, and media portable.

there is a locked down version porteus kiosk if you want to run thin clients.