Busy nights call for quick, tasty meals, and this Easy Stromboli Dinner Delight is perfect for you! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful feast that your family will love. This recipe blends gooey cheeses, fresh veggies, and savory flavors, all wrapped in warm pizza dough. Get ready to impress everyone at the dinner table while keeping cooking time short. Dive in to learn the step-by-step guide and tips for making the perfect Stromboli!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 pound pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach, drained and finely chopped
– 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Olive oil, for drizzling
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce, for serving
When I make Stromboli, I love to use fresh ingredients. A good pizza dough is key. It should be soft yet firm. I often buy mine from a local store or make it at home. The mozzarella cheese melts beautifully. The ricotta adds creaminess.
Add cooked spinach for a healthy touch. I always drain it well to avoid soggy dough. Thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini give a nice crunch.
Oregano and garlic powder boost the flavor. They create an aroma that fills the kitchen. Beating an egg for the wash gives a golden crust. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps with browning.
Don’t forget salt and pepper. They balance the flavors perfectly. For serving, marinara sauce is a must. It adds a tangy kick that complements the Stromboli.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
– Additional veggies: onions, tomatoes, or peppers
– Protein options: salami, pepperoni, or cooked chicken
Feel free to mix and match ingredients. You can add onions for sweetness. Tomatoes can add moisture. If you want more protein, try salami or cooked chicken.
Nutritional Information
– Caloric breakdown: Approximately 350 calories per serving
– Macronutrients:
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
This meal offers a good balance of nutrients. It’s filling and satisfying. You can enjoy it without guilt, especially on busy nights.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the pizza dough. Aim for a rectangle, about 12×14 inches. Make sure it has an even thickness.
Filling the Stromboli
– In a medium bowl, mix shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and chopped spinach. Add thinly sliced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and zucchini.
– Sprinkle in dried oregano and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well until all is combined.
– Spread this cheesy veggie mix evenly over the rolled dough. Leave about a 1-inch border along the edges.
Rolling and Baking
– Start at one long side of the dough. Carefully roll it up tightly into a log shape. Tuck the edges in as you roll to keep the filling inside.
– Place the rolled Stromboli seam side down on your baking sheet.
– Brush the top with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. This gives a nice golden crust. Drizzle olive oil on top for extra flavor.
– Use a sharp knife to make a few diagonal slits across the top. This helps steam escape while it bakes.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and cooked dough.
– After baking, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it up and serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To get the best Stromboli, start with the dough. If you use store-bought dough, choose a high-quality brand. This saves time and gives good results. For homemade dough, let it rest after mixing. This makes it easier to roll out.
When rolling the dough, lightly flour your surface. This prevents sticking. Aim for a rectangle about 12×14 inches. Keeping an even thickness helps with baking.
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
Seasoning is key to a tasty filling. Add salt, pepper, and spices to your mix. Dried oregano and garlic powder give great flavor. You can also try fresh herbs for a twist.
Besides marinara, consider other dipping sauces. Garlic butter or ranch dressing can add fun flavors. A balsamic glaze or pesto also works well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overstuffing the Stromboli. Too much filling makes it hard to roll and seal. Stick to the right amount for a good roll.
Another mistake is not sealing the edges properly. If the edges open, the filling spills out. To seal, pinch the edges tightly. You can also use a fork to crimp them. This keeps everything inside while baking.
