Looking for a delicious and hearty meal? Look no further than the Spinach Artichoke Calzone, which packs a whopping 1078 calories per serving! This dish is the perfect combination of savory ingredients, all wrapped up in a warm and flaky crust.

Not only is the Spinach Artichoke Calzone delicious, it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Spinach and artichokes are both nutrient-rich foods that offer a host of vitamins and minerals, making this calzone a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthy.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making the perfect Spinach Artichoke Calzone at home, along with a few interesting facts about the history of calzones and the health benefits of spinach and artichokes.

Calories in a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

As mentioned earlier, a Spinach Artichoke Calzone packs in a hefty 1078 calories per serving. This makes it a great option for anyone looking for a filling and satisfying meal, but not ideal for those watching their caloric intake. To reduce the calorie count, you can make a few adjustments to the recipe, such as using a lower calorie crust, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more vegetables to the filling. Regardless of the calorie count, the Spinach Artichoke Calzone is a delicious treat that's worth indulging in on occasion.

Ingredients in a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

To make a Spinach Artichoke Calzone, you'll need a few key ingredients, including pizza dough, spinach, artichokes, garlic, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. The process of assembling the calzone is fairly simple. Start by rolling out the pizza dough, then add the filling ingredients and fold the dough over to create a pocket. Bake in the oven until the crust is golden brown and crispy. You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as mushrooms, onions, or sun-dried tomatoes, to give it a unique and personalized twist.

Nutrition of a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

While a Spinach Artichoke Calzone might not be the healthiest option in terms of calorie count, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium, while artichokes are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. One serving of the Spinach Artichoke Calzone contains about 55 grams of carbohydrates, 33 grams of fat, and 48 grams of protein. It also provides about 30% of the daily recommended intake of calcium and 25% of the recommended intake of iron. Overall, the Spinach Artichoke Calzone can be a part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation and balanced with other nutritious foods.

How to Make a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

To make a Spinach Artichoke Calzone, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a separate bowl, mix together your filling ingredients, including chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Spread the mixture over one half of the dough, leaving a little space around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal. Make a few slits in the top of the calzone to allow steam to escape, then bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The History of Calzones

The calzone is thought to have originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. Its name comes from the Italian word 'calzone', which means 'trouser leg' or 'stocking', due to its shape. Traditionally, calzones were filled with leftover ingredients from the pizzeria, such as tomato sauce, cheese, and meats. Today, there are countless variations of the calzone, including vegetarian options like the Spinach Artichoke Calzone. The calzone's popularity has since spread throughout the world, becoming a beloved and timeless dish for anyone who loves pizza.

Health Benefits of Spinach and Artichokes

Spinach is a nutrient-dense superfood that's packed with vitamins and minerals. It's a good source of vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision and skin, as well as vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Artichokes are also rich in nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. They can help support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. When combined in a dish like the Spinach Artichoke Calzone, these two ingredients offer a host of health benefits, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option.

Variations of Spinach Artichoke Calzones

While the classic Spinach Artichoke Calzone is delicious in its own right, there are many ways to switch things up and add your own personal flair. Some popular variations include:

• Chicken Spinach Artichoke Calzone: add cooked chicken to the filling for a little extra protein and flavor
• Mushroom and Spinach Calzone: substitute mushrooms for artichokes for a different flavor profile
• Vegan Spinach Artichoke Calzone: use a vegan cheese substitute and omit the parmesan to make a plant-based version of this dish

Experiment with different ingredients and find your favorite version of the Spinach Artichoke Calzone!

Pairing Suggestions for a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

When it comes to pairing a drink with your Spinach Artichoke Calzone, you can't go wrong with a cold beer or a glass of red wine. The bold flavors of the calzone pair well with a hoppy IPA or a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. As for sides, you can't go wrong with a simple tossed salad or a side of garlic bread. The freshness of the salad and the warmth of the garlic bread complement the calzone perfectly. Do be sure to leave some room for dessert, however - a sweet treat like tiramisu or cannoli is the perfect way to round out this decadent meal.

Storage Tips for a Spinach Artichoke Calzone

If you happen to have any leftovers after enjoying your Spinach Artichoke Calzone, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the calzone in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the Spinach Artichoke Calzone for up to 3 months - just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Possible Spinach Artichoke Calzone Combinations

The beauty of the Spinach Artichoke Calzone is that it's easily customizable to your preferences. Some other ingredients you might try adding to the filling include:

• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Feta cheese
• Caramelized onions
• Prosciutto
• Pine nuts

Get creative and come up with your own tasty combinations of ingredients to make the perfect Spinach Artichoke Calzone for you!