Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Lemon Pizza will become a favorite:
- Bold and Refreshing – The combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheese creates a refreshing twist on the traditional pizza.
- Easy to Make – Despite its unique flavor, this recipe is easy enough for beginners to make and doesn’t require complicated steps.
- Versatile Toppings – You can adjust the cheese or add extra herbs and spices to suit your taste, making this recipe perfect for experimenting.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re having a cozy dinner, a fun pizza night, or entertaining guests, this pizza is sure to impress.
- Crispy and Golden Crust – The dough is soft and elastic with a crispy edge, providing the perfect base for the zesty lemon topping.
If you’re looking to elevate your pizza game with a burst of fresh flavors, this Lemon Pizza is the way to go!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Activate the Yeast: In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough: In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Lemon Cheese Mixture: While the dough is rising, prepare the lemon topping. In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until well incorporated and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven while it preheats.
- Shape the Dough: Punch the dough down to release air bubbles, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12-inch round shape.
- Assemble the Pizza: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel if using a stone. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the cheese mixture.
- Bake the Pizza: Slide the parchment paper (or pizza) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Remove the pizza from the oven. Drizzle the top with olive oil and honey. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4 servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time (for dough to rise): 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
This recipe is quick to prepare, and the dough will rise while you prepare the toppings, making it a simple yet impressive dish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may not stay as crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough. Just make sure to stretch it into the desired shape and proceed with the toppings as instructed.
2. Can I add more toppings to this pizza?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other toppings like arugula, goat cheese, or even grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.
3. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the yeast and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like! Goat cheese, feta, or ricotta blends will give it a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well.
5. How do I make the crust crispier?
To make the crust crispier, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven before placing the dough on it. This helps the crust cook evenly and become extra crispy.
6. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
Yes, you can use dried thyme. Just use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to replace 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme.
7. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before or after the first rise. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
8. Can I add more lemon to the pizza?
If you love lemon, feel free to add extra zest or drizzle more lemon juice over the pizza after baking for an extra citrusy kick.
9. How can I make the pizza spicy?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the pizza before baking, or drizzle with a bit of hot sauce after baking.
10. Can I make this pizza vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese with vegan alternatives like vegan mozzarella and ricotta, and use a plant-based honey substitute if you want a fully vegan pizza.
Conclusion
This Lemon Pizza is a delightful, refreshing twist on classic pizza, perfect for those who love bold, zesty flavors. The tangy lemon and creamy cheeses create a unique flavor combination that’s sure to stand out at any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or as part of a special gathering, this pizza will undoubtedly be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Lemon Pizza: A Zesty Twist on Classic Pizza
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American/Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Pizza is a bold and refreshing twist on traditional pizza, featuring a crispy, golden crust topped with a tangy lemon glaze, fresh herbs, and a perfect balance of creamy cheeses. This unique pizza offers a zesty combination of lemon, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, creating a light and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup warm water
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a medium bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Lemon Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out to a 12-inch round on a floured surface.
- Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the dough to parchment paper or a pizza peel. Spread the lemon cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle with fresh thyme.
- Bake the Pizza: Slide the parchment paper (or pizza) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil and honey, and optionally sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
- Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
For a crispier crust, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet before placing the dough on it.
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
If you prefer, you can add other toppings such as arugula or goat cheese for more flavor.
For a spicier version, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking or drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
