Lemon Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Pizza is a refreshing twist on the classic pie, offering a burst of citrus flavor that balances beautifully with creamy cheeses and a crispy crust. With its light, tangy profile, this pizza is perfect for warm weather gatherings, brunches, or whenever you crave something out of the ordinary. It’s a gourmet-style pizza that impresses with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pizza dougholive oilricotta cheesefresh mozzarella cheeseparmesan cheesegarlicfresh lemon zestfresh lemon juicefresh thyme or basilred pepper flakes (optional)salt and black pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.

Brush the dough with olive oil and lightly season with salt and black pepper.

Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over the dough.

Top with torn pieces of fresh mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated parmesan.

Add minced garlic and freshly grated lemon zest evenly over the cheese.

Carefully transfer the pizza with the parchment paper onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice.

Top with fresh thyme or basil and optional red pepper flakes.

Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one 12-inch pizza, serving 2-4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add thinly sliced prosciutto after baking for a salty contrast.

Use goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta for a bolder flavor.

Add arugula on top after baking for a peppery bite.

Incorporate a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.

Swap fresh basil for mint for a refreshing twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Lemon Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to maintain the crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time.

Does lemon juice make the pizza soggy?

Not if added after baking—it enhances the flavor without affecting texture.

Can I make this pizza without ricotta?

Yes, you can use any soft, spreadable cheese like mascarpone or goat cheese.

Is this pizza vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your cheeses are made without animal rennet.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—try asparagus, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for added freshness.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free pizza dough.

Is Lemon Pizza good cold?

Surprisingly yes! It holds up well and tastes great chilled.

Can I grill this pizza?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Use a pizza stone or grill-safe pan.

What wine pairs well with Lemon Pizza?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements it beautifully.

Can I prep the toppings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese blend and lemon zest a day ahead.

Conclusion

Lemon Pizza is a bright, flavorful take on a beloved classic that brings elegance and zest to your table. Its simple ingredients come together to create a unique and memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to for pizza night.

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