Veggie Calzones Recipe

Indulge your senses in the delightful harmony of fresh vegetables and cheese wrapped in a crispy crust. This veggie calzones recipe is a delicious Italian treat, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. An ideal choice for a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Photos of Veggie Calzones Recipe

While all the ingredients in this recipe are commonly used in cooking, keep an eye out for artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes. These are used less frequently in everyday recipes and may not be readily available in your pantry. You can easily find them in the canned goods section or the produce aisle of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Veggie Calzones

Pizza dough: This is the base of the calzones. It's a simple dough, usually made from flour, water, yeast, and salt.

Fresh spinach: Spinach adds a touch of green and a boost of nutrients.

Fresh mushrooms: Mushrooms give the calzones a meaty, umami flavor.

Zucchini: Adds a soft texture and mild flavor.

Cabbage: Cabbage provides a nice crunch and is full of vitamins.

Green bell pepper: Gives a sweet, slightly bitter taste.

Tomato: Adds juiciness and tangy flavor.

Onion: Onions are essential for flavor base.

Sun-dried tomatoes: They provide a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.

Artichoke hearts: They have a tender texture and a delicious, slightly tangy taste.

Black olives: Olives add a salty, briny flavor.

Garlic: Garlic gives a pungent and spicy aroma, essential in Italian cooking.

Italian seasoning: A blend of common Italian herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.

Mozzarella cheese: The cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy filling.

Asiago cheese: Asiago gives a sharp, nutty flavor.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and brushing the calzones before baking.

Marinara sauce: A delicious dipping sauce, made from tomatoes, garlic and herbs.

One reader, Huberto Pineda says:

This veggie calzones recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh veggies and gooey cheese is simply divine. The crust is perfectly crispy, and the flavors are so satisfying. It's a great way to get in those veggies and enjoy a delicious meal. Highly recommend!

Huberto Pineda

Essential Techniques for Making Veggie Calzones

How to prepare the calzone dough: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal parts and roll each piece into a large oval on a lightly floured surface.

How to fold the calzone: Fold the pizza dough in half to create a half-moon shape and pinch and seal the edges of each calzone.

How to vent the calzones: Cut small holes on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape while baking.

How to serve the calzones: Serve the calzones with marinara sauce for dipping.

How To Make Veggie Calzones

These veggie calzones are made with pizza dough loaded with spinach, mushroom, zucchini, and loads of cheese. Serve with marinara for dipping.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbpizza dough,prepared
⅓cupfresh spinach,chopped
⅓cupfresh mushrooms,sliced
⅓cupzucchini,sliced
⅓cupcabbage,chopped
⅓cupgreen bell pepper,chopped
⅓cuptomato,seeded and sliced
⅓cuponion,chopped
⅓cupsun-dried tomatoes,chopped
⅓cupartichoke hearts,drained and chopped
⅓cupblack olives,sliced
3clovesgarlic,minced
2tspItalian seasoning
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
1½cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded, divided
½cupAsiago cheese,grated, divided
3tbspolive oil
1cupmarinara sauce,for dipping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet.
Divide pizza dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each piece into a large oval on a lightly floured surface.
Mix spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, cabbage, green bell pepper, fresh tomato, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, garlic, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Season with salt and black pepper.
Divide the vegetable mixture over the center of each piece of dough, leaving about a 1-inch border of dough.
Sprinkle about ¼ cup mozzarella cheese and about 2 tablespoons Asiago cheese over vegetables.
Fold pizza dough in half to create a half-moon. Pinch and seal the edges of each calzone.
Transfer calzones to the prepared baking sheet. Cut small holes on the top of each to vent, then brush tops with olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until lightly browned.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese and Asiago cheese evenly over each calzone and continue baking for 5 to 10 minutes more until cheese is melted and crust is golden brown.
Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 868.54kcal
Fat: 45.46g
Saturated Fat: 20.94g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.73g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.07g
Carbohydrates: 75.04g
Fiber: 7.70g
Sugar: 9.43g
Protein: 41.10g
Cholesterol: 100.69mg
Sodium: 2037.48mg
Calcium: 941.62mg
Potassium: 822.08mg
Iron: 6.32mg
Vitamin A: 278.51µg
Vitamin C: 24.39mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Veggie Calzones

When preparing your veggie calzones, it's crucial to not overfill them. Overfilling can lead to the filling spilling out during baking, which can result in a mess and a less satisfying calzone. Aim for a balanced ratio of dough to filling. Also, remember to seal the edges properly to prevent any leakage. A good technique is to fold the edge over itself and then press down with a fork, creating a tight seal and a decorative edge.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Veggie Calzones

Prepare the ingredients: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and cheese in advance to streamline the assembly process.

Use store-bought dough: Save time by using pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store instead of making it from scratch.

Organize your workspace: Set up all your ingredients and tools in an organized manner to make the assembly process more efficient.

Prep multiple calzones: Consider making extra calzones and freezing them for future quick and easy meals.

Invest in a pizza cutter: Use a pizza cutter to quickly and neatly slice the calzones before serving.

Prep ahead: Prepare the vegetable filling the night before to save time on the day of making the calzones.

Substitute Ingredients For Veggie Calzones Recipe

pizza dough - Substitute with whole wheat pizza dough: Whole wheat pizza dough is a healthier alternative, providing more fiber and nutrients.
fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
fresh mushrooms - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms have a meatier texture and a rich, earthy flavor, making them a great substitute for regular mushrooms.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, providing a similar mild flavor and texture.
cabbage - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for cabbage, offering a similar texture and a slightly earthy flavor.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, especially when fresh ones are not in season.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes, providing a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus can be used as a substitute for artichoke hearts, offering a similar texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavor.
black olives - Substitute with kalamata olives: Kalamata olives can be used as a substitute for black olives, providing a rich and fruity flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning, providing a similar herbaceous flavor.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, providing a slightly sharper flavor.
asiago cheese - Substitute with parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute for asiago, offering a similar nutty and savory flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild and buttery flavor.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato sauce with Italian seasoning: Tomato sauce with Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute for marinara sauce, providing a similar flavor profile.

Best Way to Present Homemade Calzones

Elevate the dough: Use high-quality pizza dough and ensure it is rolled out evenly and thinly for a delicate and refined texture.
Artful arrangement of ingredients: Meticulously arrange the fresh spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, cabbage, green bell pepper, tomato, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and black olives to create a visually stunning and appetizing display.
Cheese perfection: Select the finest mozzarella cheese and asiago cheese to ensure a rich and indulgent flavor profile. Grate the cheese fresh for optimal melt and texture.
Golden brown perfection: Bake the calzones until they achieve a golden brown hue, signifying a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Sauce sophistication: Present the marinara sauce in a small, elegant vessel for dipping, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Calzones at Home

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal tray used for baking items in the oven.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for calzones and other baked goods.
Large bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients for the calzone filling.
Brush: Used for applying olive oil to the calzones before baking.
Knife: Essential for chopping and preparing the vegetables for the calzone filling.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Grater: Used to grate the cheese for the calzone filling.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for the calzone recipe.
Pastry brush: Used for brushing the calzones with olive oil before baking.
Baking rack: Used for cooling the calzones after they are baked.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Veggie Calzones

Allow the veggie calzones to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled calzones in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped calzones in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
Frozen veggie calzones can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of calzones from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat refrigerated calzones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
For frozen calzones, you can either let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as described above, or you can bake them directly from frozen. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the frozen calzones on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is golden brown.
If you want to reheat the calzones in the microwave, place a refrigerated calzone on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen calzones, microwave for 2-3 minutes, then check and add more time as needed. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer crust compared to oven reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Calzones

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the tops of the calzones with a little olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the calzones on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crispy.
If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the calzones in aluminum foil before reheating in the oven. This will help prevent the crust from drying out or becoming too crispy. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For a crispy crust without using an oven, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the skillet with a little olive oil or butter, then place the calzones in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your calzones. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the calzones in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
Avoid using a microwave to reheat your calzones, as it can make the crust soggy and the filling can become unevenly heated. If you must use a microwave, place the calzone on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Interesting Fact About Veggie Calzones

The calzone is a folded pizza that originated in Naples, Italy. It was traditionally made with leftover ingredients from the week's meals, making it a delicious and practical way to use up food. This dish has been enjoyed for centuries and is a testament to the resourcefulness of Italian cuisine.

Is Making Veggie Calzones at Home Cost-Effective?

This veggie calzones recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With a variety of affordable vegetables and cheeses, it provides a budget-friendly meal option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it an economical choice. The calzones offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, earning a solid 9/10 rating. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without breaking the bank.

Are Veggie Calzones Healthy or Unhealthy?

The veggie calzones recipe is a relatively healthy option, as it is packed with a variety of nutritious vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, cabbage, bell pepper, tomato, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives. These vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also includes some healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese, which can help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of regular dough to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for low-fat varieties to decrease the overall fat and calorie content
Include more leafy greens, such as kale or chard, to boost the nutrient density of the filling
Use a homemade marinara sauce with no added sugars or preservatives for a healthier dipping option

To further enhance the nutritional value of the veggie calzones, consider adding some lean protein sources like grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu to the filling. This will help balance out the meal and keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs and spices can add more flavor without relying on excessive amounts of cheese or oil.

Editor's Opinion on This Veggie Calzone Recipe

This veggie calzones recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients. The variety of vegetables, along with the blend of cheeses and aromatic seasonings, creates a satisfying and wholesome filling. The calzones are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy yet tender crust. The addition of marinara sauce for dipping adds a burst of tangy flavor to complement the savory filling. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and versatile option for a vegetarian meal or a delightful appetizer.

Enhance Your Veggie Calzones Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan crust.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety smooth mashed potatoes made with butter, cream, and a hint of garlic for extra flavor.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and a touch of cinnamon for a delightful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.

Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing salad made with a mix of fresh berries, tossed in a light vinaigrette for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Veggie Calzones

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: This hearty and nutritious bowl is packed with roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a flavorful tahini dressing.

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: These colorful bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of ground turkey, couscous, and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: A refreshing and vibrant fruit salad tossed in a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert or snack.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Indulge in a velvety smooth and comforting butternut squash soup, seasoned with warm spices and finished with a drizzle of cream for a cozy meal option.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Veggie Calzones

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring spinach and artichokes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for a comforting and delicious start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate dessert that oozes with a molten center. The warm, gooey chocolate paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy, luscious cheesecake topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Why trust this Veggie Calzones Recipe:

This veggie calzones recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh and flavorful vegetables and cheeses, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal. The diverse array of spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and more ensures a rich and varied taste experience. With a careful balance of Italian seasoning and garlic, this recipe promises to deliver an authentic and mouthwatering Italian cuisine experience. The step-by-step instructions and attention to detail demonstrate a commitment to quality and taste, making this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delicious vegetarian meal.

Have you tried making these delicious Veggie Calzones? Share your experience, tips, and any variations you've made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe. It's a convenient option and will work just as well as homemade dough.

Can I add or substitute other vegetables in the calzones?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetable filling to your liking. You can add or substitute any vegetables you prefer, such as eggplant, broccoli, or bell peppers.

How can I ensure that the calzones are properly sealed?

To ensure that the calzones are properly sealed, make sure to pinch and seal the edges of each calzone firmly. This will help prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.

Can I make the calzones ahead of time and bake them later?

Yes, you can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

What can I serve with the veggie calzones?

The veggie calzones are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. A simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables would also complement the calzones nicely.