This bright and zesty lemon pizza is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Topped with fresh herbs, it brings a burst of flavor to your plate.
Honestly, who knew lemon and pizza would be such a great match? I love pairing it with a crisp salad for a light meal. Give it a try, and you might be surprised! 🍋🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience. If you want to make it at home, my favorite is a simple recipe with flour, water, yeast, and salt. Gluten-free or cauliflower crusts also work well for a lighter option!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for pizza, while Parmesan brings a nice sharpness. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try a vegan mozzarella, which usually melts pretty well, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices add zest and brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, a splash of lemon juice can do the trick, although it won’t have the same visual appeal. Orange or lime slices can also give a different but pleasant flavor!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil are great, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano. Dried herbs can be used as well if fresh options aren’t available, just use them sparingly since they are more concentrated.
How Do You Ensure Your Pizza Dough Is Perfectly Rolled?
Rolling out pizza dough can be tricky if you aren’t careful! Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Always start with a floured surface. This keeps the dough from sticking!
- Use a rolling pin to apply even pressure. Rotate the dough as you go to maintain a round shape.
- Don’t worry if it’s not a perfect circle—rustic shapes add charm!
- If the dough resists rolling, let it rest for a few minutes. This relaxes the gluten and makes it easier to shape.
Take your time here—it makes a big difference in the final pizza!
Easy Lemon Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 12 inches)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful lemon pizza comes together quickly! Expect about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-12 minutes of baking time. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven to heat up. This will help create a crispy crust!
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter. If you’re using a baking sheet, dust it with cornmeal so the pizza doesn’t stick. Transfer the rolled dough onto your pizza peel or prepared baking sheet.
3. Prepare the Garlic Oil:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with the minced garlic. This fragrant oil will be brushed over the pizza dough for extra flavor!
4. Assemble the Pizza:
Using a brush, evenly spread the garlic olive oil over the surface of the pizza dough. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously all over the top.
5. Add Lemon and Herbs:
Evenly distribute the thin lemon slices over the cheesy base. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley and basil (if using) along with the red pepper flakes for a nice touch of heat. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper!
6. Bake:
Carefully slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or place your baking sheet directly into the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly with a slight browning.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top for extra flavor and garnish with any remaining fresh herbs if desired. Slice it up and enjoy your warm, zesty lemon pizza!
Enjoy this bright, cheesy, and herbaceous lemon pizza that balances zesty citrus with savory flavors!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just make sure to check the package for any specific instructions on handling and baking.
Can I Make This Pizza in Advance?
You can prepare the pizza dough and toppings ahead of time. Just assemble the pizza when you’re ready to bake it. If you pre-bake the crust, keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 days before adding toppings and reheating.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Pizza?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with other toppings like thinly sliced red onions, artichokes, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Just keep the balance of lemon and herbs in mind!
