Spinach Calzone
A savory spinach calzone filled with cheeses, olives, mushrooms, and pepperoni, perfect for a flavorful, handheld meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Squeeze water out of the thawed spinach and place it in a bowl.
- Add olive oil and garlic powder to the spinach.
- Mix the spinach with a fork until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the dough and cut into portions for calzones.
- Fill each dough portion with the spinach mixture, sliced mushrooms, black olives, shredded cheeses, and sliced pepperoni.
- Seal the edges of the dough to form a calzone.
- Place the calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the spinach mixture. You can substitute the cheeses with ricotta for a creamier texture or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. Make sure to seal the edges of the calzones well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which enhances the flavors. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of Grandma Caruso's Spaghetti Sauce for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Italian Sausage Spinach Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispiness rather than using a microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Calzone contains roughly 1180 calories, with 65g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (138% of the Daily Value), protein (130% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1761mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it lightly to wilt before squeezing out the moisture. This will help avoid excess water in your calzones and keep the filling flavorful.
How can I make these calzones vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! However, feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the filling. Just ensure you adjust the moisture content by squeezing out any excess water.
What can I serve with calzones?
Calzones pair well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence. For a more substantial meal, complement them with Mostaccioli And Italian Sausage.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).