Italian Stromboli 

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Assemble the Stromboli: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the pepperoni, black olives, green bell peppers, and onions. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder over the top.
4. Roll Up the Stromboli: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log, sealing the seam and ends. Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the top of the Stromboli with olive oil, then make a few small slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
7. Serve: Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for Success

• Use Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality pizza dough, marinara sauce, and fresh toppings for the best flavor.
• Customize the Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences. You can add cooked sausage, ham, mushrooms, or any other favorite pizza toppings.
• Ensure Proper Sealing: Make sure to seal the edges of the Stromboli tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Stromboli is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. It’s also great for slicing into smaller portions and serving as an appetizer or party snack.

Health Considerations

While Italian Stromboli is undeniably delicious, it’s also a rich and indulgent dish. To keep it on the healthier side, you can use whole wheat pizza dough and load up on the vegetable fillings. You can also serve it with a side of mixed greens for added fiber and nutrients.

Variations and Customization

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add extra veggies such as mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts for a vegetarian version.
• Meat Lover’s Stromboli: Load up on your favorite meats such as sausage, ham, and bacon for a hearty and satisfying twist.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add extra cheese varieties such as provolone, cheddar, or ricotta for a gooey, cheesy filling.

Conclusion..