Calzones

Calzones Recipe: Authentic Italian Dish with Sausage-Mushroom and Ham-Spinach Fillings

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Calzones are a delicious and satisfying Italian dish that is essentially a folded pizza. They are typically filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and then baked until golden and crispy. Calzones are a great option for a quick and easy meal that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

The origins of calzones can be traced back to Italy, where they are believed to have been created as a way to enjoy pizza on the go. The word "calzone" actually means "trouser" or "stocking" in Italian, which refers to the shape of the folded dough. Calzones have since become popular all over the world and are enjoyed by many as a delicious and convenient meal option.

Ingredients

10 oz (283 g) of refrigerated pizza dough
1 egg
grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Sausage-mushroom filling

12 oz (340 g) of bulk pork sausage or italian sausage
0.5 cup of pizza sauce
1 x 4 oz (113 g) package of shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
1 x 2 oz (57 g) can of mushroom stems and pieces, drained

Ham-spinach filling

1 x 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen chopped spinach
1 cup of finely chopped fully cooked ham (5 oz (142 g))
1 cup of shredded swiss cheese (4 oz (113 g))
2 tsp of thinly sliced green onion

How to prepare

Calzones

Unroll the pizza dough.
Roll or stretch the dough into a 15x10" rectangle.
Cut the dough into 6 x 5" squares.
Divide the desired filling among the squares.
Brush the edges with water.
Lift one corner and stretch the dough over to the opposite corner.
Press the edges of the dough well with a fork to seal.
Arrange the calzones on a greased baking sheet.
Prick the tops with a fork.
Combine the egg and 1 tsp of water.
Brush the egg mixture onto the calzones.
Sprinkle with Parmesan, if desired.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 8 – 10 minutes.
Let the calzones stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Sausage-mushroom filling

In a skillet, cook the pork sausage or Italian sausage until browned.
Drain the sausage.
Stir in the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and mushroom stems and pieces.

Ham-spinach filling

Cook the spinach according to the package directions and drain well.
In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and 2 green onions.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for a unique flavor.
Experiment with different fillings such as pepperoni, olives, peppers, or artichokes to create your own custom calzone.
For a vegetarian option, omit the meats and add extra vegetables such as roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to seal the edges of the calzones well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

- Pricking the tops of the calzones with a fork before baking helps to release steam and prevent them from becoming soggy.

- Brushing the calzones with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and helps to create a crispy crust.

- Letting the calzones stand for a few minutes after baking allows the filling to set and makes them easier to handle and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Calzones can be served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They are also great for packing in lunches or enjoying as a quick and easy dinner option.

Cooking Techniques

Rolling or stretching the dough into a thin rectangle helps to create a crispy and evenly cooked crust.

- Brushing the calzones with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and helps to create a crispy crust.

- Pricking the tops of the calzones with a fork before baking helps to release steam and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pizza dough, you can use refrigerated crescent roll dough or homemade pizza dough instead.

- Feel free to customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. You can use turkey sausage, tofu, or extra vegetables in place of the meats.

Make Ahead Tips

Calzones can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover them with plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from drying out. You can also freeze unbaked calzones for later use by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Presentation Ideas

Serve calzones on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Calzones pair well with a variety of beverages such as beer, wine, or soda. For a complete meal, serve them with a side salad or vegetable dish to balance out the flavors and textures.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quick and easy meal option.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

On average, a serving of calzone can contain around 300-400 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. This makes calzones a relatively moderate calorie meal option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in calzones come primarily from the pizza dough and any additional fillings such as vegetables or sauces. On average, a calzone can contain around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates per serving, depending on the size and ingredients used.

Fats

The fats in calzones come from ingredients such as cheese, meats, and any oils or fats used in cooking. A typical calzone can contain around 15-20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from cheese and meats.

Proteins

Proteins in calzones come from ingredients such as meats, cheese, and any other protein-rich fillings. A serving of calzone can provide around 15-20 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Calzones can provide a variety of vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used. Vegetables such as spinach and mushrooms can add vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Cheese can also provide calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

Calzones can contain common allergens such as wheat (in the pizza dough), dairy (in the cheese), and meats. It is important to check ingredient labels and be aware of any potential allergens when preparing or consuming calzones.

Summary

Overall, calzones can be a balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. By choosing a variety of fillings and ingredients, you can customize your calzone to suit your nutritional needs and preferences.

Summary

Calzones are a delicious and versatile meal option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. By choosing a variety of fillings and ingredients, you can create a balanced and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer a classic sausage-mushroom filling or a unique ham-spinach combination, calzones are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I had stumbled upon an old cookbook at a yard sale. As I flipped through the pages, I came across a recipe for calzones that immediately caught my eye. I had never tried making them before, but something about the combination of a crispy crust and gooey cheese filling intrigued me.

I bought the cookbook without hesitation and rushed home to try out the recipe. As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the dough, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building inside me. The aroma of the dough rising in the warm oven filled the air, and I couldn't wait to see how the calzones would turn out.

When the time came to stuff the calzones with the filling, I was unsure of the exact measurements and ingredients to use. I decided to trust my instincts and add a little bit of this and a little bit of that until the filling tasted just right. The combination of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and marinara sauce was simply divine, and I knew I had stumbled upon a winning recipe.

As the calzones baked in the oven, the smell of melted cheese and warm dough wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When I finally pulled them out of the oven, the calzones were golden brown and oozing with cheesy goodness. I couldn't believe how delicious they looked, and I couldn't wait to take a bite.

The first bite of the calzone was a revelation. The crispy crust gave way to a molten center of cheese and pepperoni, and I savored every mouthful. The blend of flavors and textures was simply perfect, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these calzones countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. I have shared the recipe with family and friends, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Each time I make them, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe, and I am filled with a sense of joy and nostalgia.

I have since learned that calzones have a long history, dating back to ancient Italy. Originally created as a portable meal for workers in the fields, calzones have evolved over the years to become a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people all over the world. The beauty of calzones lies in their versatility – you can fill them with whatever ingredients you like, making them a perfect dish for using up leftovers or trying out new flavor combinations.

As I continue to make calzones for my loved ones, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The simple act of breaking bread (or in this case, tearing apart a calzone) can forge deep connections and foster a sense of warmth and belonging. I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon that old cookbook and found the recipe for calzones, as it has brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years.

So, the next time you're craving a comforting and delicious meal, why not give calzones a try? With a little bit of patience and a whole lot of love, you can create a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Bon appétit!