Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and onion and cook until softened and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spinach and cook for 1 minute, or until wilted.
- Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Squeeze out as much water as possible.
- Roughly chop the spinach and add it to the mushroom mixture.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the mushroom and spinach mixture and stir until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a 8-inch circle.
- Spoon about 1/4 of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
- Crimp the edges of the dough with a fork to seal.
- Cut a few slits in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, sauté the mushrooms thoroughly to remove excess moisture and blanch and squeeze the spinach dry to prevent a watery filling. Combining mozzarella with a drier cheese like Parmesan helps absorb some of the excess moisture. Ensure the oven is preheated to 450°F (232°C) for a crispy crust. Calzones are best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy crust.
