For the Media
Family Fun in the Kitchen
NASHVILLE, Tenn., September 2006 - Cooking together is a great way to spend time as a family, and there are all kinds of things that kids can learn in the kitchen like reading, math, and valuable life skills.
"Kids love to get their hands in dough, and Italian Sausage, Pepper and Onion Calzones are ideal for beginners because they're made with a pizza crust mix," explains Linda Carman, Martha White® baking expert. "All you do is add hot water, stir, set aside for 5 minutes, and the dough is ready. Kids will enjoy pressing the dough out into small circles for calzones or into a pan for their favorite pizza."
For more fun family recipes, visit www.marthawhite.com
Italian Sausage, Pepper and Onion Calzone
1/2 lb. Italian sausage (bulk or with casing removed)
2 cups red and/or green pepper strips
2 cups thinly sliced onion
2 (6.5- oz.) pkgs. Martha White® Pizza Crust Mix or Deep Pan Pizza Crust Mix
1 cup hot water
4 teaspoons oil
3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 3 teaspoons dried basil
Pizza Sauce, optional
Heat oven to 375° F. Grease large baking sheet. In large skillet, combine sausage, onions and pepper; cook over medium high heat until sausage is browned and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Drain.
In medium bowl, combine pizza crust mixes and hot water. Stir vigorously with fork, about 30 strokes, or until blended. Shape dough into ball; coat with 2 teaspoons oil. Cover; let rest in warm place for 5 minutes.
Divide dough into 6 equal pieces. Form each into a ball; place on baking sheet. With oiled hands press each piece of dough into a 6 1/2-inch circle. Place equal portions of sausage mixture evenly on half of each circle, to within 1/2 inch of edge. Sprinkle with cheese and basil. Brush edge of dough with water; fold dough over filling and press to seal.
Bake at 375° F. for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush remaining oil over calzones. Cool about 5 minutes. Serve with pizza sauce, if desired.
6 Servings