Ingredients

225 g all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
7 g fast-rising active dry yeast
150 ml water
25 ml olive oil
1 red onion , finely chopped
4 -6 mushrooms , sliced
2 cloves garlic , minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
10 black olives , pitted and chopped
200 g cherry tomatoes ( about 15 )
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil or 10 fresh basil leaves
100 g feta cheese ( about 3/4 cup crumbled )
4 tablespoons parmesan cheese
fresh ground black pepper
1 large egg , beaten with a splash of milk
6 tablespoons tomato sauce
Calzone is a folded pizza-like dish originating from Naples, Italy. The word Calzone means 'pant leg' or 'trouser' in Italian, as the shape of the dish resembles a folded pair of pants. It's a popular street food and on-the-go meal in Italy and in many other countries worldwide. While traditional calzone typically includes tomato sauce, cheese, and meat or vegetable toppings, this recipe adds a twist with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. This combination of salty and tangy flavors makes for a delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Calzone is a versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless culinary creativity. Serve it hot or cold, as a main dish or as party finger food, and customize it to your liking.

Instructions

1.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Add water and olive oil, mix until a dough forms.
2.Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3.Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.
4.Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a pan, sauté the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic in olive oil for 2-3 minutes.
5.Add the chopped olives, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried or fresh basil. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat.
6.Remove from heat, crumble in the feta cheese and add parmesan cheese. Season with black pepper and stir well.
7.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
8.Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Roll each dough ball into a circle about 11 inches (28 cm) in diameter.
9.Spread 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce on one half of the circle, leaving about a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges. Spread half of the filling over the sauce.
10.Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing down with your fingers or a fork.
11.Brush the surface of the calzone with beaten egg and milk mixture.
12.Use a sharp knife to make a few slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape and prevent the calzone from bursting.
13.Repeat the same process with the second portion of dough and the remaining filling.
14.Bake the calzones for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on the surface. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

PROS

Calzone is a tasty and filling meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side salad.
It’s a great way to use up leftovers or veggies that are about to go bad in the fridge.

This recipe has a flavorful combination of cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs.
It’s a delicious twist on the classic pizza toppings.

Unlike traditional pizza, calzone is easy to grab-and-go, making it a perfect meal for busy days and on-the-go lifestyles.

CONS

Calzone is not the healthiest food option, as it is typically high in calories, fat, and sodium.

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacking in nutrients.
Those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should not consume this recipe due to the gluten in the flour.

Calzone can be messy and challenging to prepare, especially if the dough is too thin or overfilled with toppings.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While calzone may not be the healthiest meal choice, certain ingredients in this recipe offer some health benefits.
Cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and A, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help support eyesight, immunity, and heart health.
Feta cheese is lower in calories, fat, and sodium than many other types of cheese. It also contains calcium and protein, which can support bone health and muscle growth.
Olive oil is a good source of unsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower inflammation and cholesterol levels in the body.
Fresh herbs like basil and oregano contain vitamins and minerals and have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in digestion and reduce illness.

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