Vegetarian Calzones
Vegetarian calzones are portable, cheesy delights filled with a blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. The crispy crust encases a savory, cheesy filling, making them an appealing choice for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike seeking a satisfying, homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle yeast over very warm water and let stand about 5 minutes to soften.
- Stir in brown sugar, salt, and butter.
- Add 2 1/2 cups white flour and beat with a mixer for 5 minutes.
- Beat in egg, then mix in the remaining flour by hand.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or ricotta, for varied flavor. If you're short on time, store-bought pizza dough can be a great substitute. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the filling and provide more nutrients. This recipe is a great way to use up leftovers from dishes like Italian Garden Saute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor. A fresh salad or some roasted vegetables would make a perfect accompaniment. These calzones also pair beautifully with Italian recipes like Quick Pasta Primavera, making for a satisfying meal. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces for a fun twist!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover calzones can be stored 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 until warmed through. For freezing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetarian Calzones contains roughly 755 calories, with 34g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2183mg per serving (95% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out and filling it for the calzones.
What can I use as a filling besides cheese?
You can fill calzones with a variety of ingredients, such as sautéed vegetables, beans, or even leftover meats if you're not strictly vegetarian. Try mixing in some cooked spinach and ricotta for a delicious alternative to the cheese filling.
Can I bake these in advance and freeze them?
Absolutely! You can bake the calzones until golden, let them cool completely, and then freeze them. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
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).