Introduction

Calzones Margherita, a delightful Italian dish, are essentially stuffed pizzas that you can easily prepare using an air fryer. This recipe takes traditional flavors of the Margherita pizza and wraps them in a delicious dough, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside gooey and cheesy. Perfect for a quick dinner or as a savory snack, these calzones are sure to please anyone at the dining table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pizza dough – 250 grams
Tomato sauce – 100 ml
Mozzarella cheese – 150 grams
Fresh basil – a handful
Olive oil – for brushing
Salt and pepper – to taste

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 calzones

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix until well blended, then knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, a pinch of salt, and fresh basil. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Divide the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.

Assemble the Calzones

Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto one half of each disc, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) for 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Calzones

Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade calzones hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Storage

Calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

Freezing

For longer storage, calzones can be frozen before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, there is no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Customization

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or spinach to suit your taste preferences.

Cook techniques

Dough Preparation

The dough for calzones is best made with a combination of flour, water, yeast, and salt. Allow it to rise properly for a soft and fluffy texture.

Filling Choices

Classic Margherita calzones use tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. You can also experiment with additional fillings like vegetables or different cheeses.

Shaping the Calzone

Roll out the dough into circles, place the filling in one half, and fold the other half over, sealing the edges well to prevent leakage during cooking.

Using an Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer before placing the calzones inside. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice crispy exterior.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Typically, calzones can be cooked at around 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, but this may vary based on your air fryer model.

FAQ

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or even vegan cheese, depending on your preference.

Can I freeze calzones?

Yes, calzones can be frozen before or after cooking. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

How do I know when the calzones are done cooking?

Calzones are done when they are golden brown on the outside and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely, store-bought pizza dough can save time and still yield delicious results for your calzones.

Conclusion

The air-fried Calzones Margherita are a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together the flavors of mozzarella, tomato, and basil in a perfectly crispy package. This quick and easy recipe showcases the versatility of air frying, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of homemade calzones with this accessible method.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Caprese Calzones

Try adding fresh basil, slices of tomato, and mozzarella to create a Caprese-inspired filling for a refreshing flavor combination.

Pesto Chicken Calzones

Mix cooked chicken with pesto and cheese for a savory filling that elevates your calzone game.

Mushroom and Spinach Calzones

Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

Buffalo Chicken Calzones

Spice things up with shredded buffalo chicken and a drizzle of ranch dressing inside your calzones for a zesty kick.

Ricotta and Herb Calzones

Blend ricotta cheese with a variety of herbs for a creamy, flavorful filling that complements a range of toppings.

Cheesy Pepperoni Calzones

For a classic touch, fill your calzones with pepperoni and a generous amount of cheese for a satisfying treat that kids love.