This recipe will teach you how to make mouth-watering spinach calzones from scratch. The calzones are filled with a flavorful spinach and cheese mixture, and the dough is perfectly fluffy and golden brown. This is an American classic that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce, for serving
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions.
- Roll out each portion of dough into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of the spinach and cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
- Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown.
- Serve the spinach calzones hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Interesting Facts
Calzones originated in Naples, Italy, and are a popular street food.
The word 'calzone' means 'trouser' or 'pant leg' in Italian, referring to the folded shape of the dish.
Calzones are a versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meats, vegetables, and cheeses.