Sweet Potato and Kale Calzone is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and earthy flavors. This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings when you crave something comforting yet nutritious.
Sweet potatoes are the star here, bringing a natural sweetness and creaminess once mashed. Kale adds a touch of earthiness and loads of nutrients, making this dish both flavorful and healthy. Ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese work together to add richness and a slight tanginess to the filling. Oregano and garlic powder enhance the savory notes, while a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth. The pizza dough provides a perfectly crispy and chewy enclosure, and a beaten egg gives a beautiful golden finish. Don't forget a touch of salt and pepper to taste!
This calzone pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. For something heartier, serve it alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup. A glass of chilled white wine or a crisp apple cider complements the flavors beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives you a hot oven ready to bake your calzone to golden perfection. While the oven heats, peel and cube about 2 pounds of sweet potatoes. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the sweet potatoes, cooking them for about 15 minutes until they're tender. Drain them well and then mash them until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with 2 cups of chopped kale. Add 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the mix. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Salt and pepper are your friends here—add them to taste.
Take your pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large circle. You're aiming for a nice, even thickness. Spoon the sweet potato and kale mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border for sealing. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal it tightly.
Brush the top of the calzone with a beaten egg to give it a glossy finish. Make a few small cuts in the top to allow steam to escape while baking. Place your masterpiece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes until it's beautifully golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
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