Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this delightful calzone recipe. Perfectly baked, crispy on the outside and oozing with cheese and savory fillings, calzones are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a fun dish to make at home. Whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress. Let’s dive into the delicious world of calzones!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) dry yeast
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1 calzone):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 18g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles (about 8 inches in diameter).
- Spread ricotta cheese on one half of each circle.
- Add mozzarella and pepperoni on top of the ricotta.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Place calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your calzone with alternative ingredients. You can use different cheeses like provolone or feta, or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
Calzones pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For a beverage, consider serving with a chilled Italian beer or a glass of red wine.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Calzones can also be frozen; just wrap them tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold water for yeast activation.
- Overfilling the calzone with ingredients.
- Not sealing the edges properly, causing them to open during baking.
- Skipping the resting time for the dough.
- Baking at a temperature that’s too low.
Helpful Tips
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
- Brush the calzones with olive oil before baking for a golden finish.
- Experiment with different filling combinations.
- Make mini calzones for appetizers or parties.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Just refrigerate it after kneading and let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What are some popular fillings for calzones?
Common fillings include ricotta, mozzarella, pepperoni, vegetables, and various meats. Feel free to get creative!
Can I bake calzones instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking calzones is a healthier option and still yields a deliciously crispy crust.
How do I know when my calzone is done?
Calzones are ready when they are golden brown on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze calzones after baking?
Yes, baked calzones can be frozen. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping and storing.
Conclusion
This calzone recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a wonderful opportunity to customize with your favorite fillings. Perfect for dinner or a gathering, these delicious, stuffed pockets of dough are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade calzones and the delightful flavors of Italy!
Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles (about 8 inches in diameter).
- Spread ricotta cheese on one half of each circle.
- Add mozzarella and pepperoni on top of the ricotta.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Place calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Nutrition
