This tasty lemon white pizza is a refreshing twist on the classic! It features a creamy sauce topped with fresh herbs that will make your mouth water.
Plus, who can resist that zesty lemon flavor? I love having it as a light meal or snack. It’s so easy to whip up, and it’s sure to impress your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: A pre-made dough saves time, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own dough. Alternatively, use naan or pita bread for a quick and different crust option.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that classic stretchiness, while ricotta adds creaminess. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or goat cheese for distinct flavors. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese blend!
Lemon: Fresh lemon adds a bright flavor. If you don’t have lemons, a splash of lemon juice or even a bit of lime can work in a pinch, but the zest is best for that intense flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand! Great alternatives include thyme or chives. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used, but remember to reduce the amount.
How Do You Ensure Your Pizza Dough is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to a delicious crust is cooking at a high temperature. Preheating your oven (and pizza stone if you have one) is important! This helps create a nice, crispy base and prevents sogginess.
- Make sure to roll out your dough evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overload on toppings, which can make the crust soggy. A light hand with cheese and toppings goes a long way.
- Keep an eye on the pizza while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so your pizza might be done a minute or two earlier or later than expected!
Easy Lemon White Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (about 12-inch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, and then you’ll bake it for 10-12 minutes. In total, you will need roughly 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious pizza from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat while you prepare the pizza. This helps achieve a crispy crust!
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round shape. Once rolled, transfer it to a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet if you’re using a pizza stone, or place it directly onto a baking tray.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil using a brush or your fingers. This adds flavor and helps the crust crisp up during baking.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and spreadable.
5. Spread the Ricotta:
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, evenly spread the ricotta mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
6. Add the Cheeses:
Now sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the ricotta layer. This combination melts beautifully and creates the perfect cheesy topping!
7. Sprinkle on the Herbs:
Scatter the chopped fresh herbs—parsley, basil, and oregano (if using)—on top of the cheese. This adds wonderful flavor and freshness.
8. Layer with Lemon Slices:
Arrange the thin lemon slices evenly over the cheese mixture. The lemon will add a refreshing twist as it bakes!
9. Add Spices:
Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the pizza for a hint of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
10. Drizzle Olive Oil:
Give the entire pizza a gentle drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors and help everything stick together.
11. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully place the pizza in the oven (on the pizza stone or baking sheet) and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbly cheese as signs it’s done.
12. Cooling Time:
Once baked, carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This waiting time allows the cheeses to set a little!
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally garnish your pizza with extra fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious, bright, and creamy lemon white pizza!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Lemon White Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough Instead of Pre-Made?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully. Just make sure to roll it out to a similar thickness as the store-bought dough for even cooking. You can easily find recipes online for a simple pizza dough.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese or goat cheese can be good substitutes. For a lighter option, you could also use cottage cheese, but make sure to blend it until smooth first for the right texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet on low heat for the best results, which will help keep the crust crispy!
Can I Add Other Toppings to the Pizza?
Sure! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, artichokes, or mushrooms, or even proteins like chicken or shrimp. Just be mindful of the quantity to avoid weighing down the pizza and making it soggy.
