THREE CHEESE CALZONES

Now that you have made your Homemade Hot Giardiniera you can serve it with these Three Cheese Calzones. Along with a few slices of Italian salami, marinara for dipping and a mixed baby green salad with a simple vinaigrette and you have a complete meal. That is sure to satisfy even the hungriest man in your house. Bubba, his crew, and the grand-kids just love this meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese {about 8 ounces}
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 1/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons freshly grated parmesan cheese {about 1 1/2 ounces}
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
• 1 pound prepared pizza dough, at room temperature
• All-purpose flour, for dusting
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Marinara sauce, warmed for dipping
• 4 ounces sliced Italian salami
• Homemade Hot Giardiniara, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Make the filling: Mix the mozzarella, ricotta, basil, scallions, 1/4 cup parmesan and the breadcrumbs in a medium bowl until combined.
3. Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece on a lightly floured surface, to a 7 to 8-inch round.
4. Spoon one-quarter of the filling onto one half of each dough round, leaving a 1/2-inch border. 
5. Lightly brush the edges of the dough with some of the beaten egg; fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Transfer calzones to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the calzones with the remaining beaten egg and cut 2 slits in the top of each to let steam escape.
7. Sprinkle calzones with the remaining 2 teaspoons parmesan, then bake until golden brown and cooked through, 18 to 20 minutes.
8. Serve with marinara sauce, the salami, Homemade Hot Giardiniera and a salad of baby mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette.  

ACTIVE TIME: 25 MINUTES
TOTAL TIME: 40 MINUTES 
SERVES: 4