Traditional Italian Stromboli 🇮🇹🥖

This delightful recipe for Traditional Italian Stromboli is not only simple but also packs a flavorful punch that’ll impress your family and friends! It’s a stuffed bread roll filled with savory ingredients, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer. The crust turns golden and crispy while the filling remains warm, melty, and aromatic. Enjoy it with marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ll be transported straight to Italy! 🍅🧀

Ingredients

For the dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the filling

• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Italian seasoning (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until it forms a sticky dough.

3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, spinach, bell peppers, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.

6. Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12x15 inches) on a floured surface.

7. Assemble: Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll up the dough tightly from one long side to the other, sealing the edges.

8. Shape and Cut: Place the rolled Stromboli seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Cut a few slits on top of the roll to allow steam to escape. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

9. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

10. Serve: Let the Stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

🥄 Make sure to tightly roll the Stromboli to prevent the filling from oozing out. If it cracks during baking, it just adds to the rustic charm!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap out pepperoni for mushrooms, zucchini, and olives for a delightful vegetarian option! 🍄
• Cheesy Delight: Load it up with extra cheese! Mix in provolone, gouda, or even feta for a burst of flavor.
• Spicy: Add jalapeños or spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick. 🌶️
• Pesto Lover: Spread pesto sauce over the dough before adding the filling for a more herbaceous taste.
• Low-carb: Use a low-carb fathead dough as a substitute for a guilt-free indulgence.

Enjoy your Italian Stromboli creation, and buono appetito! 🍕❤️