1. Confirmation and Comparison:
Trader Joe’s pizza dough is a versatile staple that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes, including calzones. Whether you prefer the classic plain dough or opt for the herb-infused or whole wheat varieties, Trader Joe’s offers options to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
For calzones, each type of dough brings its own unique flavor profile to the table. The plain dough provides a neutral base that allows the fillings to shine, while the herb-infused dough adds an extra layer of savory complexity. On the other hand, the whole wheat dough offers a nuttier flavor and additional fiber, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to add a nutritional boost to their meal.
Ultimately, the best dough for your calzone will depend on your personal preference and the flavors you wish to highlight in your dish. Experiment with different varieties to discover your favorite combination.
2. Calzone Recipe with Trader Joe’s Pizza Dough:
Ingredients:
1 package Trader Joe’s pizza dough
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup sliced pepperoni
½ cup sliced mushrooms
¼ cup sliced black olives
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional: additional fillings such as cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, or spinach
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle, about ¼ inch thick.
Step 3: Spread marinara sauce evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
Step 4: Layer mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives, and any other desired fillings on top of the sauce.
Step 5: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp if desired.
Step 6: Transfer the calzone to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Trader Joe’s pizza dough calzone!
Variations:
BBQ Chicken Calzone: Substitute marinara sauce with BBQ sauce, and use cooked shredded chicken, red onion, and cilantro as fillings.
Veggie Lover’s Calzone: Load up on your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Mediterranean Calzone: Fill with feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh basil for a taste of the Mediterranean.
3. Tips and Tricks:
To prevent the dough from becoming tough, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
When sealing the edges of the calzone, make sure to press firmly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
Choose fillings that are not too watery to avoid soggy calzones. If using vegetables with high moisture content, such as tomatoes or zucchini, consider sautéing them first to remove excess moisture.
If your calzone is browning too quickly in the oven, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning before the filling is fully cooked.
Conclusion
With these tips and a little creativity, you can easily create delicious calzones using Trader Joe’s pizza dough as the perfect canvas for your culinary creations. Enjoy the convenience and versatility of this pantry staple for your next pizza night!
FAQs
Can I use pizza dough for calzone?
Yes, you can use pizza dough for calzone. In fact, many people prefer using pizza dough for calzones as it provides a similar texture and taste. Just shape the dough, fill it with your desired ingredients, fold it over, and bake until golden brown.
How do you shape Trader Joe’s pizza dough?
To shape Trader Joe’s pizza dough, start by preheating your oven and preparing a baking sheet. Then, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Add your toppings to one half of the dough, fold the other half over, and seal the edges.
Is calzone more unhealthy than pizza?
Calzones can be more or less healthy than pizza depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes. Typically, calzones are filled with cheese, meats, and other toppings, which can make them higher in calories, fat, and sodium compared to a basic cheese pizza. However, you can make healthier versions by using lean meats, plenty of vegetables, and whole wheat dough.