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This vibrant 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is my go-to when I want something fresh but comforting for dinner. Three creamy cheeses melt together on a golden crust, brightened by zesty lemon and fragrant basil. If you love a pizza that feels special but is simple enough for a weeknight, this one always impresses.
The first time I made this for a backyard dinner with friends, everyone asked for the recipe before even reaching for seconds. Now it is a favorite for cozy movie nights or relaxed family meals.
Ingredients
- Fresh pizza dough: gives a crisp outside and chewy inside I like buying it from a local bakery or making it at home for the best flavor
- Olive oil: brushed onto the dough helps crisp the base and adds richness Choose a fruity extra virgin variety
- Fresh mozzarella: brings milky melt and stretches beautifully Look for cheese packed in water for quality
- Ricotta cheese: creates creamy pockets that soak up zesty flavors Opt for a whole milk version that is fluffy and sweet
- Parmesan cheese: sharp and nutty for a golden finish Grate it fresh for the best taste
- Unwaxed lemon zest: gives bursts of brightness and aroma Always wash and dry before zesting
- Garlic: for gentle heat and complexity Mince it very finely so it blends into the crust
- Fresh basil leaves: add a peppery herbal note Tear by hand to release their oils
- Crushed red pepper flakes: optional for a gentle kick Use as much or as little as you like
- Black pepper: freshly ground lifts all the flavors
- Sea salt: rounds everything out Use a flaky or fine sea salt to avoid over-salting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Stretch the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface use your fingers or a rolling pin to stretch or roll the fresh pizza dough into a twelve inch circle. You want an even thickness with a slightly thicker edge for the crust.
- Prepare the Base:
- Transfer the shaped dough to a piece of parchment paper. Brush all over with olive oil for extra crisp and golden color. Scatter the minced garlic evenly so it infuses the base as it bakes.
- Add Cheese Layer:
- Distribute mozzarella and ricotta evenly across the dough leaving a one inch border so the cheese does not overflow. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top for a delicious golden finish.
- Season the Pizza:
- Lightly sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over the cheese. Add red pepper flakes if you want gentle heat. Scatter half the lemon zest evenly across the toppings to infuse the cheese with brightness.
- Bake:
- Carefully transfer the pizza on the parchment into your preheated oven or onto a hot pizza stone if using. Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the crust is deep golden and the cheeses are bubbling and melted.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pizza from the oven. Immediately garnish with the remaining lemon zest and torn basil leaves for an extra layer of aroma. For added luxury drizzle a touch more olive oil before slicing and serving hot.
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My favorite part of this pizza is the hit of lemon zest both before and after baking It is what makes each bite feel different from any old cheese pizza My kids love tearing the basil and helping me sprinkle it fresh out of the oven
Storage Tips
Allow leftover slices to cool completely before storing Always use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days To reheat place slices on a hot pan or bake at a high temperature to crisp up the crust again Avoid microwaving as it makes the crust soft
Ingredient Substitutions
If you have no ricotta goat cheese or even a mild feta also works beautifully For more zip add a few capers or thinly sliced shallots Arugula can be added after baking for freshness and bite
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pizza with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or serve alongside roasted veggies For drinks white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling lemonade complements the bright flavors
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Italian Inspiration
This pizza takes cues from classic Italian white pizzas with its mix of cheeses and focus on fresh herbs Lemon adds a modern twist reminiscent of sunny Southern Italy I make this every spring when basil is at its best and it always feels festive
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a crisp pizza crust at home?
Preheat your oven as hot as possible and place a pizza stone inside. Baking on parchment helps transfer the pizza, ensuring a golden, crisp base.
- → Can I use different cheeses for this pizza?
Absolutely! Swap ricotta with goat cheese for extra tang or experiment with fontina for a melty texture alongside mozzarella and Parmesan.
- → Is fresh lemon zest essential?
Fresh zest delivers bright citrus flavor that pairs uniquely with the cheeses and basil, but you can omit it for a milder result.
- → What’s a good serving suggestion for this pizza?
Serve hot, sliced, and optionally topped with a drizzle of honey or a handful of fresh arugula for added brightness and bite.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add thin slices of fresh chili before baking to suit your heat preference.