Calzone

The Happy Parcel - Delicious Calzone Recipe with Cheese and Sausages

Who doesn't love a warm parcel filled with cheese and sausages that brings a smile to your face? This calzone recipe, affectionately called "The Happy Parcel," is perfect for any occasion: from a family dinner to a party with friends. The preparation is simple, and the result is so tasty that no one will be able to resist.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

The History of The Happy Parcel

Calzones are a delicious form of folded pizza, rooted in Italian culinary tradition. Over time, they have been reinterpreted and adapted in different cultures, becoming a versatile and beloved dish worldwide. The Happy Parcel brings a touch of joy to every meal, being not only a nourishing dish but also a symbol of conviviality.

Ingredients

- 1 package of pizza dough (approximately 400 g)
- 8 tablespoons of tomato sauce
- 200 g of scamorza cheese (or mozzarella)
- 150 g of sausages (preferably pork or chicken)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A few fresh basil leaves

Necessary Utensils

- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Kitchen scissors or knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Toothpicks

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by removing the pizza dough from its packaging. Roll it out on a clean surface dusted with a little flour to prevent sticking. Use a rolling pin to obtain an even sheet of dough, then cut it into 6 equal parts. These pieces will form your happy parcels.

Step 2: The Filling

Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Slice the scamorza cheese thinly and cut the sausages into rounds. Set them aside for later use.

Step 3: The Tomato Sauce

In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil. This mixture will add a note of freshness and flavor to your parcels. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 2-3 minutes, then let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Assembling the Parcels

On each square of dough, place a spoonful of tomato sauce, a few slices of scamorza, and rounds of sausages. Be generous, but don’t overdo it, as you will need to seal the parcel well. Fold each square and press the edges firmly to ensure they don’t open during baking. Don’t forget to poke the surface with a toothpick to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the parcels on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them. Bake the parcels for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden and browned on top. The aromas will fill your kitchen, and your appetite will be more than evident.

Serving

The happy parcels can be served warm or cold, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners. You can accompany these delicious calzones with a fresh green salad or a flavored yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips

- Variations: You can add olives, peppers, or mushrooms to diversify the filling. Also, replacing the sausages with chicken or vegetables will make the parcels healthier.
- Sauce: If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, add a pinch of chili powder or a few drops of Tabasco sauce.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare the parcels in advance, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer, and when they are completely frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to cook them, let them thaw and then bake according to the instructions.

Nutritional Benefits

These happy parcels are not only delicious but also offer some nutritional benefits. Scamorza cheese is a good source of calcium, and the sausages can provide valuable protein. Adding basil and tomato sauce not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to antioxidant intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough is perfect for this recipe and will save you time.

2. What kind of cheese can I use?
If you can't find scamorza, mozzarella is an excellent and equally tasty alternative.

3. Can I make vegetarian happy parcels?
Absolutely! Replace the sausages with vegetables of your choice or tofu for a vegetarian option.

4. How can I store the parcels?
The parcels can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze them.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to share this delicious recipe with family and friends. The Happy Parcel will surely become everyone's favorite! Enjoy your meal!