These Ricotta and Spinach Calzones are the perfect vegetarian meal that brings together gooey ricotta cheese, savory spinach, and aromatic herbs all wrapped in golden, crispy pizza dough. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, these calzones are a great meatless alternative that’s lighter yet still satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, these calzones are sure to become a new favorite in your pizza routine.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

• 8 oz ricotta cheese

• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 1 oz Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 2 tablespoons water

• 1 large egg yolk

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano

• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 lb pizza dough

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, olive oil, egg yolk, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and divide it into 4 even pieces.

4. Using a rolling pin or your hands, flatten each piece into a 7-inch round on a piece of parchment paper.

5. Spread 1/4 of the spinach filling evenly over half of each dough round, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.

6. Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash, then fold the other half of the dough over the spinach mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border uncovered.

7. Press the edges of the dough together and pinch with your fingers to seal.

8. With a sharp knife, cut 5 steam vents in the top of each calzone, then brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.

9. Transfer the calzones onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, then brush with any remaining egg wash and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Bake for another 7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

10. Allow the calzones to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrients (per calzone)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Total Fat: 16 g

  • Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Cholesterol: 55 mg

• Sodium: 710 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 38 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugars: 3 g

• Protein: 14 g

• Vitamin A: 20% of daily value

• Vitamin C: 15% of daily value

• Calcium: 18% of daily value

• Iron: 10% of daily value

Why Ricotta and Spinach Calzones Make the Perfect Vegetarian Meal

Ricotta and Spinach Calzones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a vegetarian meal that is both flavorful and filling. While many vegetarian dishes can leave you feeling unsatisfied, these calzones are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a well-rounded meal that will keep you feeling full for hours. The ricotta cheese provides a creamy, rich base for the filling, while the spinach adds a vibrant color and a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and folate. These nutrients support immune health, bone strength, and red blood cell production, making spinach an essential part of a healthy diet. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy richness to the filling while providing a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add even more richness and depth of flavor, making the filling satisfyingly cheesy and creamy.

The dough, which is golden and crispy when baked, adds texture and structure to the calzones. The high fat content in the dough helps to make the calzones light yet filling, while the addition of olive oil in the filling helps to round out the overall flavor, offering a satisfying mouthfeel. By combining these ingredients, Ricotta and Spinach Calzones offer a balanced meal that is rich in nutrients, comforting in taste, and easy to prepare.

Health Benefits of Ricotta and Spinach Calzones

Ricotta and Spinach Calzones offer several health benefits, particularly for those following a vegetarian or plant-based diet. The primary health benefit comes from the spinach, which is rich in essential nutrients that support overall health. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and skin, and vitamin C, which plays a role in boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. The folate in spinach supports cell growth and helps reduce the risk of birth defects, while the iron in spinach helps support healthy red blood cells.

The ricotta cheese in the filling provides protein, calcium, and other nutrients, making it an important component of the dish. Calcium supports bone health, while protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. As a dairy-based ingredient, ricotta also provides beneficial probiotics that can aid in digestion and support gut health. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add to the protein and calcium content, making this dish a great source of these important nutrients.

The dough, although higher in carbohydrates, can be made with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. If you’re looking for a lower-carb version, you can experiment with alternative flours such as almond flour or cauliflower flour, which can provide a lower glycemic index while maintaining a satisfying texture. The olive oil used in the dough and the filling contributes healthy fats, which support heart health and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K.

The Flavor Profile of Ricotta and Spinach Calzones

The flavor profile of Ricotta and Spinach Calzones is rich, savory, and balanced, with creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy, golden crust. The ricotta cheese provides a smooth, mild, and slightly tangy base, which perfectly complements the earthy spinach. The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses enhances the creaminess of the filling and adds a sharp, savory flavor. The oregano adds an herbaceous note to the filling, while the garlic powder and red pepper flakes bring depth and warmth to the dish. The red pepper flakes offer a subtle hint of spice, which contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the ricotta and mozzarella.

The dough, once baked, forms a golden, crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch with each bite. The olive oil used in both the filling and dough adds richness, balancing the textures and flavors of the calzone. The crust itself is light and slightly chewy on the inside, which provides the perfect contrast to the soft, gooey filling.

The combination of flavors in these calzones is both comforting and complex. The hearty, savory filling of ricotta and spinach, combined with the crispy, golden crust, creates a balanced dish that satisfies both the stomach and the taste buds. The spices and herbs provide a depth of flavor that makes these calzones stand out from traditional pizza options.

How to Customize Ricotta and Spinach Calzones

One of the best aspects of Ricotta and Spinach Calzones is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. While the classic version uses spinach as the main vegetable, you can easily swap it out for other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a different flavor profile. Adding mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts to the filling can also provide extra flavor and texture.

For those who prefer a stronger flavor, consider adding additional herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary to the filling. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a pinch of smoked paprika can also add warmth and complexity to the flavor. If you enjoy a more savory filling, you can mix in sautéed onions or garlic to bring even more depth to the calzones.

If you’re looking for a protein boost, consider adding cooked lentils, tofu, or tempeh to the filling. These plant-based proteins will provide an extra layer of texture and substance, making the calzones even more filling. For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling or drizzle a bit of spicy tomato sauce on top after baking.

For those who are gluten-free or looking to reduce carbs, you can swap out the traditional pizza dough for a gluten-free or cauliflower-based dough. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavors and textures while meeting your dietary needs.

How to Serve Ricotta and Spinach Calzones

Ricotta and Spinach Calzones are a versatile meal that can be served in various ways. For a balanced meal, pair the calzones with a light salad of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. A fresh side salad with tangy balsamic vinegar or lemon dressing will complement the rich, savory calzones and provide a refreshing contrast.

For a more indulgent option, serve the calzones with a side of marinara sauce or a tangy pesto for dipping. The marinara sauce will add a burst of tomato flavor that enhances the savory filling, while the pesto offers a herbaceous, garlicky contrast to the richness of the ricotta. If you’re looking to add a more substantial side, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes will complement the calzones and bring extra nutrients to the plate.

If you’re hosting a gathering or dinner party, these calzones make an excellent appetizer or main course. You can cut them into smaller slices to serve as finger food, paired with other appetizers like bruschetta, hummus, or olives.

Conclusion

Ricotta and Spinach Calzones are a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that combines rich, cheesy filling with a crispy pizza dough. The creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and aromatic herbs come together to create a balanced and satisfying meal that can easily be made to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or a special occasion, these calzones are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

The ease of preparation and the ability to customize the filling makes Ricotta and Spinach Calzones a great option for busy individuals and families alike. They offer a wholesome, satisfying, and flavorful vegetarian alternative that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. From the first bite to the last, these calzones provide a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.