Calzone Recipe
Looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home? This calzone recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors, featuring a golden-brown crust filled with your choice of savory ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, calzones are a versatile Italian delight that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen!
Ingredients
– Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach (or other vegetables)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 calzones. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 calzone) contains roughly 350 calories, 15g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This nutritional breakdown is based on one calzone.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a circle.
3. In a bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add cooked spinach, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture.
5. Spoon the filling onto one half of the dough circle.
6. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
7. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
8. Brush the top with olive oil for a golden finish.
9. Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
10. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your calzone by substituting ingredients. You can use different cheeses like feta or goat cheese, or swap spinach for mushrooms or bell peppers. For a meat option, add cooked sausage or pepperoni.
Serving and Pairings
Calzones pair wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Calzones can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overfill the calzone, or it may burst during baking.
- Seal the edges well to prevent leaking.
- Allow the dough to rest before rolling for easier handling.
- Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.
- Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before cutting.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for spice.
FAQs
Can I make calzone dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before using.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.
How do I know when the calzones are done?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on top and the filling is bubbling. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C).
Can I bake calzones on a pizza stone?
Absolutely! Preheat the pizza stone in the oven for better crust results. Just be cautious when transferring the calzones onto the hot stone.
What is the best way to freeze calzones?
Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label them and store in the freezer for up to three months.
Conclusion
This calzone recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for endless creativity with fillings. Perfect for any meal or occasion, calzones are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy crafting these delicious pockets of goodness in your kitchen!
Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
- Pizza dough store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a circle.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add cooked spinach, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Spoon the filling onto one half of the dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Brush the top with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until golden brown.
