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Ricotta Spinach Calzones: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Your Next Meal

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Delight in these homemade spinach and ricotta calzones, featuring a creamy cheese filling and fresh spinach, all encased in a flaky, golden dough. Ideal for a cozy dinner or as a fun appetizer, they’re sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Let the Dough Rise: Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
  6. Sauté the Spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil, add minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool slightly.
  7. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, sautéed spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
  8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough, transfer to a floured surface, and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball.
  10. Roll Out the Dough: Roll each ball into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick.
  11. Fill the Calzones: Place a scoop of filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving space around the edges.
  12. Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling, press edges to seal, and crimp with a fork if desired.
  13. Prepare for Baking: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the calzones.
  14. Bake the Calzones: Place calzones on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  15. Check for Doneness: If not golden brown after 20 minutes, bake a few more minutes.
  16. Cool Slightly: Let calzones cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
  17. Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Feel free to customize the filling with other vegetables or meats as desired.
  • Leftover calzones can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/ricotta-spinach-calzones/