Whole Wheat Mushroom Spinach Calzone Recipe
This delightful Whole Wheat Mushroom Spinach Calzone is not only a satisfying snack but also a healthy choice, packed with nutritious ingredients and a burst of flavor. With a tender whole wheat crust enveloping a savory filling of mushrooms, spinach, and cheese, this dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer at your next gathering. Let’s dive into the detailed preparation of this Italian-inspired delicacy that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1-1/2 cups |
| Water (lukewarm) | 1/4 cup + extra if needed |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Button Mushrooms | 200 grams |
| Spinach (finely chopped) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic (grated) | 5 cloves |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | For brushing |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spinach Mushroom Filling:
To start off the calzone, you’ll want to prepare the delicious spinach and mushroom stuffing. Heat a medium-sized pan over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the grated garlic and sauté it for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent, taking care not to let them brown.
Add the chopped button mushrooms to the pan, cooking them on low heat. You’ll notice that the mushrooms begin to release their moisture; allow them to cook for about one minute. Once they are tender, stir in the finely chopped spinach, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to cook the mixture until the mushrooms are fully cooked and the raw scent of spinach has dissipated, ensuring you don’t overcook the vegetables. If the mixture appears watery, increase the heat slightly for 1-2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Set aside once done.
2. Prepare the Whole Wheat Pizza Dough:
Now, let’s turn our attention to the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the active dry yeast and sugar, then pour in the lukewarm water. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it begins to bubble, indicating that the yeast is activated. This step is crucial, as it ensures your calzones will rise beautifully.
In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour and salt using your fingers. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Combine the ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, soft, and slightly elastic.
Dust your kitchen counter with some whole wheat flour, then transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough gently until it reaches a shiny and supple texture. Place it back in the mixing bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours in a warm place until it has doubled in size.
3. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, use your fist to punch it down gently to release any trapped air. Knead the dough for an additional 2 minutes. Divide the dough into equal portions, rolling each portion into a small ball. On a floured surface, flatten each ball with your hands or a rolling pin into a round shape, approximately 6 inches in diameter.
4. Assemble the Calzones:
To fill the calzones, spread about 1 tablespoon of ricotta and mozzarella cheese on one half of each dough circle. Then, add about 1 tablespoon of the prepared mushroom-spinach mixture on top of the cheese. Sprinkle a little more cheese on top for extra richness.
Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle. Press the edges together firmly to seal them, using a little water to help the dough stick. For added security, crimp the edges with a fork. Before baking, make a few slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting.
5. Bake the Calzones:
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the calzones, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Brush the tops of the calzones with milk for a lovely golden finish while baking.
Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Once baked, carefully remove the tray from the oven and let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve:
Serve these delectable Whole Wheat Mushroom Spinach Calzones hot, accompanied by a spicy marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing their flavor with every bite. Enjoy this wholesome treat that’s sure to be a hit!
This Whole Wheat Mushroom Spinach Calzone recipe not only emphasizes wholesome ingredients but also brings a burst of flavor to your table, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians and anyone seeking a nutritious snack. With its delightful balance of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
