Ionian Island Vegetable Calzone

Ingredients

While the original Italian Calzone typically features meat and cheese fillings, the Ionian Island Vegetable Calzone is a vegetarian adaptation that highlights the abundance of fresh produce found in the Ionian Islands. The traditional Italian herbs and spices are replaced with Ionian Island flavors, such as oregano, thyme, and lemon zest, to create a unique and refreshing taste. We alse have the original recipe for Calzone di verdura, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried thyme 1 teaspoon (5g) dried thyme
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. 3.
   In the meantime, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a circle, about 25cm (10 inches) in diameter.
7. 7.
   Spoon the vegetable filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
8. 8.
   Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and make a few small slits on the surface to allow steam to escape.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Zucchini — Make sure to thinly slice the zucchini to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
• Bell peppers — Remove the seeds and white pith from the bell peppers before slicing to avoid any bitterness.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If desired, you can remove the seeds before dicing to reduce the moisture content.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, marinate the sliced vegetables in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before sautéing.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability and personal preference.
• Serve the calzone with a side of tzatziki or marinara sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the calzone with beaten egg before baking.
• Leftover calzone can be refrigerated and reheated in a preheated oven for a few minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Ionian Island Vegetable Calzone warm as a main course. Cut it into wedges and accompany it with a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, on top of the calzone before serving. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will make the dish visually appealing.