Broccoli Calzone

If you have someone in your life who thinks he or she does not like broccoli, it's time to make this and see if you can initiate a change in thinking. This is so incredibly tasty, it makes broccoli into a treat. And it is ridiculously easy.

I made this recipe up as I went along, and I loved the way it came out. With the high quality pre-made pizza dough that you can find nowadays in places like Trader Joe's and Fresh and Easy, you can save yourself some trouble and have this meal ready in no time. There are infinite possibilities as to the filling, but I like the simplicity of this spicy broccoli saute. It's just the right amount of crunch, of cheese, of spice. Give it a try before you start making too many changes.

Broccoli Calzones
makes 4

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing)
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon cracked red pepper flakes
1 head broccoli, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste, whisked into 1/4 cup warm water
1 lb. whole wheat pizza dough
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup part skim shredded mozzarella

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until garlic is sizzling and turning a golden color. Add the broccoli and raise heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes. Add the tomato paste-water mixture, stir, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until broccoli is crisp tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

2. Preheat oven to 450. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silpat liner.

2. Divide pizza dough into quarters. Roll out each quarter on a floured board into a shape of your choosing (an oval is a good idea), until less than 1/4 inch thick. Spoon the broccoli, dividing evenly, into the center of each piece of dough. Don't overload the dough; use your judgment. Add 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella to each piece of dough and roll up like a burrito, sealing the dough together with your fingers. (Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect).

3. Transfer the calzones to the baking sheet and brush with a very small amount of olive oil, just to create a slight sheen. Sprinkle with a bit of extra cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tops are browned and dough is cooked through. Serve.

Marinara sauce is almost a must for dipping, but feel free to have it plain, too. Enjoy!