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Lemon Pizza: A Zesty Twist on Classic Pizza

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  • Author: Amy
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. 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.
  5. Prepare the Lemon Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and set aside.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
  7. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out to a 12-inch round on a floured surface.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Add the Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil and honey, and optionally sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
  11. 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