Description

This Zesty Lemon Pizza is a refreshing and gourmet take on classic pizza, featuring a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses topped with bright lemon zest and slices. Enhanced with fresh thyme and a touch of garlic-infused olive oil, it offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. Ideal for vegetarians and those looking to impress with a unique, flavorful main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

1 ball (about 12 oz) pizza dough

Toppings and Flavorings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small lemon, zested and thinly sliced, seeds removed
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh arugula or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside to preheat along with the oven for best crust results.
Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or onto the preheated pizza stone.
Make Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Brush this mixture evenly over the surface of the pizza dough to infuse it with flavor.
Add Cheeses: Distribute dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top for a rich, cheesy layer.
Top with Lemon and Herbs: Scatter the lemon zest and carefully lay thin lemon slices across the cheese. Sprinkle thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to taste for an herby, bright finish.
Bake: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted perfectly.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh arugula or basil leaves if desired before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use a mandoline to slice lemons paper-thin to reduce bitterness and create delicate texture.
For added protein and heartiness, top the pizza with prosciutto or grilled chicken before baking.
Substitute ricotta cheese with goat cheese for an extra tangy flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 of pizza)
Calories: 340
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 460mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 35mg