Introduction
Calzone is one of the most famous Italian dishes that originated in Naples. It is a folded pizza made from the same pizza dough, but sealed completely to form a half-moon shape filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat.
Calzone is known for its crispy exterior and hot, melted filling on the inside, which has made it one of the most popular and widely loved Italian foods around the world. Whether served as a light meal or a full dinner, calzone remains a recipe that appeals to everyone.
First: Italian Calzone Ingredients
Dough Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ tablespoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Warm water for kneading
Filling Ingredients:
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese (optional but traditional)
- Green bell pepper or mixed bell pepper slices
- Black olive slices
- Sliced mushrooms
- Salami or pepperoni slices (optional)
For Brushing Before Baking:
- 1 tablespoon oil or 1 beaten egg
For Garnishing After Baking:
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
Second: The Secret Behind Calzone Flavor
The true secret of a perfect calzone lies in:
- Dough that is soft yet strong enough to hold the filling
- Melted cheese, especially ricotta, which adds a creamy texture
- The internal sauce that makes every bite rich and flavorful
- Sealing the edges tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking
Third: Step-by-Step Calzone Preparation
1) Preparing the Dough
Mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for about one hour.
2) Preparing the Filling
Mix the mozzarella with ricotta if using. Prepare the sliced vegetables and pizza sauce.
3) Rolling the Dough
Divide the dough into balls and roll each one into a circle of medium thickness—not too thin and not too thick.
4) Adding the Filling
On one half of the dough circle, add:
- A spoon of pizza sauce
- Cheese mixture
- Vegetables and olives
- Pepperoni or mushrooms
Leave the edges clean for sealing.
5) Sealing the Calzone
Fold the empty half of the dough over the filled side. Press the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal.
6) Baking
Brush the surface with oil or beaten egg. Bake in a hot oven at 200–220°C (390–430°F) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
Fourth: Italian-Style Serving Suggestions
Calzone is commonly served with:
- Marinara sauce on the side for dipping
- Fresh green salad
- Or roasted potatoes
In Italian restaurants, calzone is often presented as a complete meal due to how filling it is.
Fifth: Delicious Add-Ons You Can Use
- Grated Parmesan cheese inside the filling
- Fresh spinach, lightly cooked before adding
- Pesto sauce for a more gourmet Italian version
- Grilled chicken for a high-protein option
- A four-cheese blend for cheese lovers
Sixth: Tips for a Perfect Calzone
- Do not add too much sauce to avoid leaks during baking.
- Seal the edges tightly to keep the cheese inside.
- The oven must be very hot to achieve a crispy crust and soft interior.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent the dough from tearing.
- Let the calzone rest for 5 minutes before serving so the filling sets properly.
Conclusion
Italian calzone is the perfect combination of pizza and stuffed pastries, offering a rich filling with a crispy exterior and soft interior. Adding this dish to the Italian cuisine section of Atayeb Kitchen brings excellent variety, especially since calzone enjoys global popularity and is frequently searched for by fans of pizza recipes and gourmet fast food.
