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Lemon Pizza: Discover a Zesty Twist on Tradition! Recipe

Lemon Pizza: Discover a Zesty Twist on Tradition! Recipe

5.2 from 18 reviews

Discover a zesty twist on traditional pizza with this Lemon Pizza recipe, featuring a bright and tangy lemon-infused cheese blend on a crisp, homemade dough. Perfectly balanced with fresh thyme, honey drizzle, and a hint of red pepper flakes for optional heat, this unique pizza is a refreshing and delightful meal option.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough 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

Topping Ingredients

  • 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 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, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt evenly to prepare for the dough.
  3. Form Dough: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour and salt mixture. Add the olive oil and stir until a dough begins to form.
  4. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for structure.
  5. Let Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it 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.
  6. Prepare Cheese-Lemon Topping: While the dough rises, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until well incorporated and set aside.
  7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat while the dough finishes rising.
  8. Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12-inch thin round shape.
  9. Assemble Pizza: Carefully transfer the dough onto parchment paper or a pizza peel. Spread the cheese-lemon mixture evenly, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle fresh thyme on top.
  10. Bake: Slide the pizza on the parchment onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
  11. Finish: Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with olive oil and honey. Optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  12. Serve: Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors!

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the lemon and cheese.
  • Red pepper flakes add nice heat but are optional based on preference.
  • Use a pizza stone if possible for a crisper crust.
  • Leftover pizza tastes great reheated or cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pizza, lemon zest pizza, ricotta pizza, fresh thyme pizza, honey drizzle pizza, homemade pizza dough, zesty pizza recipe