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Lemon Pizza Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 48 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Pizza recipe is a bright and fresh twist on classic pizza, featuring a zesty lemon topping paired with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. The combination of tangy citrus, aromatic garlic, and a crispy golden crust creates a gourmet, vegetarian-friendly dish perfect for a light main course or an elegant appetizer.


Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

  • 1 ball pizza dough (about 12–14 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese

Toppings

  • 1 small lemon, thinly sliced and seeds removed
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil or arugula


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Surface: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or a baking sheet inside the oven to heat up; this will help achieve a crisp, golden crust.
  2. Shape the Dough: On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer the shaped dough onto parchment paper for easy handling and transfer to the oven.
  3. Add Olive Oil and Garlic: Brush the dough evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the surface to infuse the pizza with aromatic flavor.
  4. Add Cheeses: Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough. Add dollops of ricotta cheese across the pizza for creamy pockets.
  5. Arrange Lemon and Season: Place the thin lemon slices over the cheese, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using for a subtle heat.
  6. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza with the parchment paper onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil or arugula. Slice and serve while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, less bitter lemon flavor.
  • Try adding a drizzle of hot honey for a balance of sweetness and spice.
  • For a savory-sweet twist, add a handful of prosciutto after baking.