If you're looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, this Spicy Mediterranean Calzone is the perfect ticket. It's packed with vibrant flavors and just enough heat to keep things interesting, making it a standout choice any time of year.
All-purpose flour forms the backbone of our dough, giving it structure and texture. A bit of salt enhances the flavor, while sugar helps feed the yeast, which is vital for our dough to rise. The warm water is essential for activating the yeast, providing the perfect environment for it to work its magic. A touch of olive oil adds richness and helps keep the dough tender. For the filling, mozzarella cheese offers that classic melty goodness, while feta cheese contributes a tangy contrast. We use sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of concentrated flavor, and black olives for their savory, briny notes. Roasted red peppers add sweetness and depth, and red onion gives it a bit of crunch and sharpness. Finally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes delivers the desired heat, and dried oregano brings it all together with its aromatic, earthy flavor. A beaten egg is used for creating a golden, glossy finish on the crust.
Serve these calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or pair them with a fresh, crisp arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance their richness. A glass of chilled white wine or a light beer would complement the spicy, savory flavors perfectly.
First, let's get the dough going. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets all foamy. This means it's ready to go. Add this yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and knead until you have a smooth dough. It should feel soft but not sticky.
Cover your dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to prepare your filling ingredients so they’re ready to go.
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release some of the air. Divide it into four equal parts. Roll each part into a circle about 1/4 inch thick—this will be the base of your calzone. On one half of each circle, layer your delicious fillings: mozzarella, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, red onion, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Be generous but leave some space at the edges.
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring your filling stays put during baking. Brush the tops with beaten egg to get that lovely golden finish.
Place them on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're beautifully golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving—enough to handle without burning your fingers!
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