The most popular choices for Italian cuisine are pizza and pasta, but calzones aren’t far behind. This half-moon-shaped pocket of dough filled with all the pizza fixings you know and love is gaining favor from diners everywhere. Whether it’s stuffed with classic tomato sauce and cheese or includes spicy pepperoni and vegetables, a calzone is a perfect meal. 

The story of the calzone begins in Naples, Italy, during the 18^th century. It was created to let people eat and walk simultaneously, and its name loosely translates to “pant leg.” Since eating a calzone doesn’t require utensils, diners could keep one hand free while filling their stomach.

The dough includes only yeast, olive oil, water, flour, and salt, and it’s baked to crispy perfection on the outside but is soft and flaky inside. While calzones traditionally were made with mozzarella, anchovies, and tomatoes, today’s versions feature a broad range of fillings, including exotic items like chicory hearts, capers, and currants.

The size of calzones also has changed — the originals were significantly smaller, made for one person to enjoy, but modern versions usually are quite large. In fact, most calzones are full-sized pizzas folded in half.

After the calzone arrived in America, it gained a new feature: dipping sauce. Calzone lovers today know one of the best parts of indulging in this savory treat is dunking it in a puddle of marinara sauce before devouring it. While calzones are an old culinary tradition, the modern twists applied by today’s Italian restaurants make them a top choice for diners across the country. 

If you’re looking for the best calzone in Jackson, NJ, check out the offerings at Inzillo’s Pizza. They’re known for their modern approach to rustic, family-style Italian dishes, and you’ll leave the restaurant satisfied and looking forward to your next visit. Go online to explore their menu of calzones, pizzas, pasta, and other Italian cuisine as well as American favorites like chicken wings. To discuss catering, call (732) 370-0310. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for more news from the business.