Three Cheese Pockets

NEED:
2 ounces pepperoni, finely chopped
1 (4-ounce) jar mushrooms, drained and finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped black olives
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon dried oregano, plus extra for garnish
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
4 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 (14-ounce) can refrigerated pizza dough
3 tablespoons bottled Italian dressing, divided
Pizza or marinara sauce, optional

Combine pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, cream cheese, oregano, garlic powder, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir well.

Cut each cheese stick into six 1/2-inch pieces.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out pizza dough to a 12-by-18-inch rectangle. Brush dough with 2 tablespoons Italian dressing. Cut into 24 equal pieces. Place one piece of mozzarella cheese and a scant tablespoon of pepperoni mixture on each square. Bring all four corners together above filling and pinch to seal. Brush with remaining Italian dressing and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and extra dried oregano. Place bundles about 1 inch apart on a baking sheet.

Oven at 375 degrees. Bake 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with warmed pizza or marinara sauce, if desired.

Makes 24 appetizers.

ENJOY!