Calzone Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this calzone recipe. Bursting with flavors from fresh vegetables, a cheesy filling, and your favorite pizza sauce, these calzones are perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends. They’re not just tasty; they’re also customizable, allowing you to get creative with the fillings. Let’s dive into the details of crafting the perfect calzone!
Why I Love This Recipe
This calzone recipe is a go-to for several reasons. First, it allows you to incorporate healthy ingredients, like whole wheat dough and an array of vegetables, making it a more nutritious choice compared to traditional pizza. Second, calzones are incredibly versatile; you can fill them with whatever you have on hand or whatever you’re craving. Lastly, they are fun to make! There’s something incredibly satisfying about folding over that dough, sealing in all the goodness, and baking them to golden perfection.
The Essentials
- 1 lb whole wheat pizza dough: You can make your own or buy it pre-made from your favorite pizzeria.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing vegetables and brushing on the calzones.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Diced, for a fresh veggie crunch.
- 2 large carrots: Peeled and diced, adding a sweet flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Diced, for a savory base.
- 4 large cloves garlic: Smashing releases their pungent aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: For herbaceous flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste.
- 1 cup pizza sauce: The classic calzone dip.
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor.
- Additional olive oil, parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and parsley flakes: For garnish.
Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowl: For preparing the filling.
- Skillet: To sauté the vegetables.
- Baking sheet: For placing the calzones in the oven.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
- Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough.
- Pastry brush: To apply olive oil on the calzones.
Make Calzone Recipe: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by allowing your whole wheat pizza dough to come to room temperature if it was refrigerated. This will make it easier to work with. If you’re making your own dough, follow your favorite recipe, or use the one provided below.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, carrots, and onion, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Add the smashed garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a circle, about 10 inches in diameter. Try to keep it as even as possible to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 5: Fill the Calzone
Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border. Fold the other half over the filling, creating a semicircle. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an added touch.
Step 6: Bake the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt, parsley flakes, and additional parmesan cheese. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with extra pizza sauce for dipping, and enjoy!
Swap Guide
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap zucchini and carrots for other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer a plant-based option.
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for extra protein.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace dried herbs for a fresher taste.
Mistakes That Ruin Calzone Recipe
- Not sealing the edges properly can lead to filling leaking out during baking.
- Overstuffing the calzones makes them difficult to seal and may cause them to burst.
- Using cold dough can make it hard to roll out and shape your calzones.
- Not allowing the calzones to cool slightly before serving can result in a messy filling.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Calzones are great for meal prep! If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. You can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Common Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What can I serve with calzones?
Calzones pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Can I bake frozen calzones directly from the freezer?
Yes, you can bake frozen calzones, but you may need to extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure they are heated through.
How can I tell when my calzones are done?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on the outside and the cheese inside is melted. A food thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) inside.
Serve with These
- Garlic Bread – Perfectly complements the flavor of the calzones.
- Side Salad – A fresh, crisp side to balance the meal.
- Marinara Sauce – For dipping those delicious calzones.
- Antipasto Platter – A great appetizer before the main course.
See You at the Table
As you gather around the table with family and friends, enjoy the process of making and sharing this calzone recipe. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a meal to remember. Whether you make them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these calzones are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by allowing your whole wheat pizza dough to come to room temperature if it was refrigerated.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, carrots, and onion, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Add the smashed garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a circle, about 10 inches in diameter.
- Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border. Fold the other half over the filling, creating a semicircle. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an added touch.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt, parsley flakes, and additional parmesan cheese. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Once baked, let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with extra pizza sauce for dipping, and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to swap in any veggies you like for a personalized touch!
- Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option.
- Calzones can be frozen for up to 3 months; just reheat in the oven.
