Ingredients DIRECTIONS Step 1: Position the oven rack in the center and preheat it to 400°. Cover a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper. Step 2: 2: In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy, stirring occasionally for about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet. Step 3: Within the same skillet over medium heat, cook the shallot and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent, approximately 2 minutes. Add the spinach and cook while stirring until it wilts, which takes about 3 minutes. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and allow it to cool. Step 4: Meanwhile, in a compact food processor, blend together mozzarella, artichokes, cream cheese, feta, cream, thyme, and lemon zest (if you’re using it), along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt until a smooth consistency is achieved. Transfer this blend into a medium-sized bowl. In the same food processor, puree the spinach mixture until it reaches an almost smooth texture. Add this to the bowl with the cheese mixture, then include the bacon and stir to combine. Step 5: Roll out one crust onto the prepared pan. Using a paring knife, cut the dough into the shape of a football, approximately 14″-by-10″. Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture on top, ensuring there’s an 1/8″ to 1/4″ border. Place the second crust on top, trim the edges to match the shape of the bottom crust, and pinch the edges together. Step 6: Utilizing a pizza cutter or paring knife, cut 8 rectangular pieces on each side of the football shape and twist them. Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water until well blended. Brush the dough with the egg wash. Step 8: Bake the football until it turns a golden brown, typically taking around 30 to 35 minutes. Allow it to cool completely. Step 9: Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe a strip of yogurt down the center of the football. Then, pipe 8 stitches across the top of the main strip, and finally, pipe yogurt in a U-shape on the narrower outer edges of the football.
