Description

A refreshing and gourmet twist on traditional pizza, this Lemon Pizza features a crispy golden crust topped with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, fragrant lemon slices and zest, fresh thyme, and optional arugula and honey for a perfect balance of savory and citrus flavors. Ideal for a light yet satisfying vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

1 ball (about 12 ounces) pizza dough
2 tablespoons olive oil

Cheese Toppings

1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Citrus and Herbs

1 lemon (thinly sliced, seeds removed)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Seasonings and Garnish

Salt and black pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Arugula (optional)
Drizzle of honey (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare stone: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat thoroughly, which ensures a crispy crust.
Roll out dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, making sure it’s even for uniform cooking.
Assemble the pizza base: Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto parchment paper. Brush the entire surface evenly with olive oil to prevent sogginess and add flavor.
Add cheeses: Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the dough base, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy layer.
Add lemon and seasonings: Arrange thin lemon slices over the cheese in a single layer. Sprinkle lemon zest, fresh thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to add brightness and a hint of spice.
Bake the pizza: Slide the parchment paper with the assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust turns golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Garnish and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of honey if desired for a peppery, sweet contrast. Slice and serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a sweeter, less bitter citrus flavor, use Meyer lemons instead of regular lemons.
Ricotta can be replaced with goat cheese or mascarpone for a different but delicious flavor profile.
Serve with a light salad to make a refreshing and balanced meal.