This Easy Lemon White Pizza is a tasty twist on your regular pie! It’s topped with creamy cheese, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs that bring a burst of flavor to every bite.
One of my favorite things about this pizza is how quick it is to whip up! I love surprising friends with it—who knew a pizza could be so fancy yet simple? 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous and have time, homemade dough can be a fun option! Gluten-free dough is also available if needed.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey texture, while ricotta adds creaminess. Feel free to replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, or use goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Lemon: Fresh lemons offer the best flavor. But if they’re hard to find, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch—just use a bit less. The lemon zest really brightens the pizza, so don’t skip that!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil are delicious, but any fresh herbs you have will work. Try thyme or chives for a different taste. Dried herbs can be used too, but fresh is always my first pick.
How Do I Get Crisp Pizza Crust?
To achieve a nice crispy crust, follow these steps:
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated. A hot oven cooks the crust quickly and prevents sogginess.
- Using a pizza stone is the secret! It helps absorb moisture and gives that great crust.
- Keep toppings light. Too much moisture from toppings can make the crust soft, so be careful with the ricotta and veggies.
- Try baking directly on the stone for the last few minutes to crisp up the underside.
With these tips, you’re on your way to a delicious pizza that has a wonderfully crisp crust!
How to Make Easy Lemon White Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza Base:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade, about 12-inch)
For the Cheesy Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lemon white pizza will take about 20 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes for baking, giving you a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough to make for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it inside the oven to get hot as well—it really helps with a crispy crust.
2. Prepare Your Dough:
Roll out or stretch your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Feel free to make it as thick or thin as you like!
3. Transfer the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal to help it slide off easily later.
4. Add Olive Oil and Garlic:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and minced garlic. Brush this blend over the surface of the dough, leaving the crust edges clear for later.
5. Layer the Cheeses:
Spread the ricotta cheese across the dough, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella. Then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
6. Top with Lemon and Herbs:
Lay the lemon slices evenly on top of the cheeses. Then sprinkle the zest, chopped parsley, and basil over everything, adding freshness to each bite!
7. Season It:
Season your pizza with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. A drizzle of olive oil on the toppings can also help keep everything moist while baking.
8. Bake!
Carefully slide your pizza (using the parchment or peel) onto the hot pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is nicely golden and the cheese is bubbling.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top or drizzle with olive oil before slicing it up!
Enjoy your bright, herby lemon white pizza! It’s a beautifully fresh dish, perfect for any occasion! 😊🍋
FAQ for Easy Lemon White Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta create that classic creamy texture, you can mix it up. Try using goat cheese for a tangier flavor or your favorite melty cheese like fontina or provolone for a different taste profile.
How Can I Make This Pizza Vegetarian?
This pizza is already vegetarian-friendly! Since it relies on fresh herbs and cheese for flavor, feel free to add other veggies like spinach, arugula, or artichokes for extra nutrients and taste.
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza up to the baking step, covering it with plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerating it for a few hours. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before baking to ensure a proper cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture!
