Calzone Pizza
Delicious Calzone with Cheese and Salami - A Simple and Quick Recipe
If you're looking for an enticing recipe for an appetizer or a delicious dinner, calzones are the perfect choice! This Italian dish, which can be filled with various ingredients, has gained popularity due to its versatility. Whether you want to indulge in a classic version or experiment with unique fillings, calzones are always an inspired choice. Let's begin our culinary journey!
Preparation Time: 1 hour (plus 10 minutes for rising)
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8 calzones
Ingredients for the Dough:
- 500g wheat flour (ideal for bread)
- 300ml lukewarm water
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (42g)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 200g cheese (mozzarella or feta)
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 150g dried salami, diced
- 100g ketchup
- 1-2 tablespoons hot pepper paste (or to taste)
- Fresh or dried basil (for flavor)
Step by Step - Preparing Calzone
1. Activating the Yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm water. Add a tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle a little flour on top, stirring gently. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential as the activated yeast will help the dough rise beautifully.
2. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the olive oil, then mix with a fork, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges. Add the salt (it’s best not to mix it directly with the yeast, as salt can inhibit its activity) and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
3. Rising the Dough:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shaping the Calzones:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Use a rolling pin to flatten each piece into a circle with a diameter of about 15-20 cm.
5. Filling the Calzones:
On each dough circle, spread a thin layer of ketchup, then add hot pepper paste to taste. Sprinkle cheese, slices of red onion, and diced salami. Don’t forget to leave a free edge to seal the calzones. Add basil for extra flavor.
6. Sealing the Calzones:
Fold each dough circle in half so that the filling is inside. Press the edges well to seal the calzones, you can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the edges.
7. Baking the Calzones:
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the calzones in the skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake the calzones in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes.
8. Serving:
Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before cutting them. You can serve them plain or with an extra dip of ketchup or yogurt sauce. They are perfect for a family dinner or a party with friends!
Tips and Tricks:
- You can experiment with various fillings: add vegetables, chicken, or even mushrooms, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a healthier version, substitute white flour with whole wheat flour.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add herbs like oregano or marjoram to the pizza dough.
Nutritional Benefits:
Calzones are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, depending on the chosen filling. Cheese provides calcium, while vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead, keeping it in the fridge. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.
- How can I make the calzones less greasy? You can bake the calzones in the oven instead of frying them, thus reducing the amount of oil used.
Delicious Combinations:
These delicious calzones pair perfectly with a fresh green salad, garlic sauce, or even a glass of dry red wine. Don’t hesitate to play with flavors and ingredients, creating a unique culinary experience.
By trying this calzone recipe, you not only enjoy a tasty dish but also a pleasant cooking experience. Try to have fun in the kitchen, experiment, and create beautiful memories through cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: dough 500g flour 300 ml warm water 1 cube of yeast (42g) 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon sugar 3 tablespoons olive oil filling cheese red onion dried salami ketchup hot pepper paste
