Italian Cold Cut Calzone Recipe

Introduction

Hi there, I’m Ava and I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Italian cold cut calzone. I’ve been experimenting with different calzone recipes for years and this one is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Top Curiosities, Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information

• The first calzone was created in Naples, Italy in the 18th century.
• Calzone means trouser in Italian, referring to the shape of the folded dough.
• Cold cuts are a popular ingredient in calzones, as they add a salty and savory flavor.
• According to a survey, calzone is one of the top 10 most popular Italian dishes in the United States.
• The average calzone contains around 1,000 calories.
• Calzones are a great option for on-the-go meals or picnics, as they are easy to transport.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped cold cuts (such as salami, ham, and pepperoni)
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 1/4 cup chopped black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4-inch thick.

In a small bowl, mix together the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Spread the cheese mixture onto half of the pizza dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Add the chopped cold cuts, roasted red peppers, black olives, and fresh basil on top of the cheese mixture.

Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and fold the other half of the dough over the filling. Use a fork to crimp the edges together.

Brush the top of the calzone with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cut a few slits on top of the calzone to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Italian cold cut calzone!

Personal Experience

I’ve made this Italian cold cut calzone recipe countless times for family and friends, and it always gets rave reviews. The combination of the salty cold cuts, tangy roasted red peppers, and fresh basil is irresistible. I usually serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and a simple green salad on the side. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party.

Expert Tip

To prevent the calzone from getting too soggy, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the roasted red peppers and black olives before adding them to the filling.

FAQs

What is a calzone?

A calzone is a folded pizza that is stuffed with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, vegetables, and sauce.

What’s the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?

A calzone is folded over like a turnover, while a stromboli is rolled up like a jelly roll.

Can I freeze the calzone?

Yes, you can freeze the calzone before baking it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions.

Can I use different ingredients?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients, such as cooked vegetables, different types of cheese, and different cold cuts.