Homemade Calzone Recipe

 Homemade Calzone Recipe

 A calzone is a folded pizza that locks in all the delicious toppings, making it perfect for a portable meal or a quick snack. Here's how to make your own calzones at home.

What is a Calzone?

A calzone is a baked, folded pizza with sealed edges, keeping all the fillings inside. You can fill it with any toppings you love, making it a versatile and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• ½ cup diced yellow onion
• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

2. Divide the Dough: Cut the pizza dough into 4 equal portions and roll each into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Add the Fillings: On one half of each dough circle, spread a portion of pizza sauce, then add onion, bell pepper, and pepperoni, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the toppings with an equal amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the toppings to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges to seal the calzone.

6. Prepare for Baking: Cut 2-3 small vents on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape. Brush the tops with olive oil.

7. Bake: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.

8. Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. They pair well with a simple side salad and a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough, which can be found in most grocery stores or made at home using gluten-free flour. The process remains the same—just ensure the dough is well-rolled and doesn’t tear when filling and folding.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative. There are many plant-based cheese options available that melt well and offer a similar flavour profile.

Serving Suggestions:

Calzones are best served warm, right out of the oven, allowing the cheese to be perfectly melted and the crust to be crisp. Here are a few ways to elevate your calzone experience:

• Marinara Sauce: Serve with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce complements the savoury fillings and adds an extra layer of flavour.

• Garlic Butter Dip: For a richer taste, offer a small bowl of garlic butter for dipping. To make it, simply melt butter and mix in minced garlic and a sprinkle of parsley.

• Side Salad: Pair your calzones with a fresh, crisp side salad. A simple Caesar or a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette works well to balance the hearty calzone.

• Herb-Infused Olive Oil: For a Mediterranean twist, serve with a small dish of olive oil infused with herbs like oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. It's a simple yet flavorful dip that adds depth to each bite.

Enjoy your calzones with these tasty sides and dips for a complete, satisfying meal!