Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Calzones are a delightful Italian dish that brings the comfort of pizza in a portable form. Stuffed with a savory mix of cheese, meats, and vegetables, these folded delights are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this calzone recipe will impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one calzone.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles about 8 inches in diameter.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, ham, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Place calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Feel free to mix in any vegetables you prefer!
Serving and Pairings
Calzones are often served with marinara sauce for dipping. They pair well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete 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 until heated through. Calzones can be frozen, wrapped tightly, and stored for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much flour can make the dough tough.
- Not allowing the dough to rise properly leads to dense calzones.
- Overstuffing can cause the calzones to burst while baking.
- Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking.
- Not sealing the edges thoroughly can lead to leaks.
Helpful Tips
- Always measure ingredients accurately for best results.
- Experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.
- Let the dough rest after kneading for better elasticity.
- Brush calzones with olive oil before baking for a golden crust.
- Allow calzones to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What can I use as a dipping sauce?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also use pesto, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for a twist.
How do I know when the calzones are done?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on the outside. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow.
Can I bake calzones on a pizza stone?
Absolutely! A pizza stone can help achieve a crispy crust. Preheat the stone in the oven before placing the calzones on it.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even a blend of shredded mozzarella and cream for a similar creamy texture.
Conclusion
Calzones are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a meal that combines the best of pizza and pastry. With endless filling possibilities and a crispy crust, this calzone recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of making these tasty treats at home!
Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked ham diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles about 8 inches in diameter.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, ham, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Place calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
