Cheesy Spinach and Herb Calzone
Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy cheeses and fragrant herbs with this Cheesy Spinach and Herb Calzone. This recipe transforms the often-overlooked spinach into a delightful filling that complements the rich ricotta and mozzarella, making it incredibly satisfying even for those who are not fond of greens. With a golden, flaky crust wrapping around a hearty mix of flavors, it's an ideal dish for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends. Pair it with your favorite marinara sauce for a deliciously comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
5
Servings
300
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen spinach
3 ounces (cooked and drained)
Part-skim ricotta cheese
2/3 cup
Shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
2/3 cup
Grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon
Dried basil
1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil)
Dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon
Pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Frozen bread dough
1 lb (thawed)
Flour
5 teaspoons
Egg white
1
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray and set aside for later.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, cooked spinach, basil, oregano, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
4
Divide the thawed bread dough into 5 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a ball.
5
On a lightly floured surface, dust each dough piece with 1 teaspoon of flour and roll it out into a circle approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
6
Spoon one-fifth of the cheese and spinach filling onto one half of each dough circle.
7
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, using a little water on the edges to help seal the calzone. Press the edges firmly, then crimp with a fork for extra security.
8
Brush the tops of each calzone with egg white for a beautiful golden finish.
9
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
10
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce.
Nutrition Information
14g
Protein
2g
Fiber
160mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cheesy Spinach and Herb Calzone?
It is a savory folded bread dish featuring a golden, flaky crust filled with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses mixed with cooked spinach and fragrant herbs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 5 individual calzones.
What are the nutritional values for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, 14g of protein, 2g of fiber, and 160mg of sodium.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What types of cheese are used in the filling?
The filling uses part-skim ricotta cheese, shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.
How much spinach is required for this recipe?
You will need 3 ounces of frozen spinach that has been cooked and thoroughly drained.
What kind of dough should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of frozen bread dough that has been thawed.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil with 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh basil.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Prepare the baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
How should I divide the dough?
Divide the thawed bread dough into 5 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
What size should the dough circles be rolled out to?
Each piece of dough should be rolled out into a circle approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
How do I assemble the calzone?
Spoon one-fifth of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
What is the best way to seal the calzone edges?
Use a little water on the edges to help seal them, press firmly, and then crimp with a fork for extra security.
Why is egg white used on the crust?
The egg white is brushed onto the tops of the calzones to give them a beautiful golden finish after baking.
How long do the calzones need to bake?
Bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
What herbs are included in the filling?
The recipe includes dried basil, dried oregano, and pepper.
What should I serve with these calzones?
They are delicious when served with your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only cheese, vegetables, herbs, and dough.
How much flour is needed for rolling the dough?
You will need approximately 5 teaspoons of flour, using about 1 teaspoon for each piece of dough.
How do I ensure the spinach doesn't make the calzone soggy?
Ensure the cooked spinach is well-drained before mixing it with the cheeses.
Can I make these for a family dinner?
Absolutely, it is an ideal dish for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe falls under the Cheese category.
How much oregano is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the provided information, there is no sugar listed in the nutritional breakdown.
Does this recipe contain many ingredients?
There are 10 main ingredients used in this recipe.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How do I mix the filling?
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, basil, oregano, and pepper until well incorporated.
How many pieces of dough should be rolled out?
You should roll out 5 pieces of dough for the 5 servings.
What happens to the calzones when they bake?
They become puffed and develop a golden brown color.
Should I let the calzones cool before eating?
Yes, it is recommended to let them cool slightly before serving.