Lemon Pizza

Lemon pizza was a total game-changer for me the first time I tried it during a coastal trip where citrus groves brushed right up against the sea. I had ordered something simple at a local spot, but when they brought out a pizza topped with thin slices of lemon, I was honestly skeptical – until the first bite. The blend of warm cheese and bright citrus had me completely hooked.

Because lemon pizza isn’t your everyday combo, I love serving it when I want to surprise people with something fresh and out-of-the-box. The zingy citrus cuts through the richness of the cheese beautifully and pairs especially well with fresh herbs. It’s one of those recipes that always gets people talking and asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Pizza dough – The base that holds everything together and turns crispy in the oven.
• Olive oil – Helps the crust get golden and adds subtle richness.
• Fresh mozzarella – Melts beautifully and gives a creamy, stretchy texture.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to balance the lemon.
• Lemon slices – The star ingredient, bringing vibrant, tangy flavor.
• Garlic – Boosts the savory notes and complements the citrus.
• Fresh parsley – Offers a fresh, green contrast and mild peppery flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Rolling pin – I use this to get the dough evenly thin and round.
• Baking sheet or pizza stone – Helps the pizza cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
• Knife or mandoline – To slice the lemons paper-thin for the best texture.
• Pastry brush – Perfect for spreading olive oil over the dough.
• Pizza cutter – Makes slicing the finished pizza quick and easy.
• Oven mitts – Always needed when pulling hot trays out of the oven.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating the oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to get hot while I prep the dough.

Step 2:

On a lightly floured surface, I roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. I brush the surface lightly with olive oil and set it aside.

Step 3:

I spread a thin layer of freshly minced garlic over the dough, then scatter the mozzarella evenly, making sure to leave a little space around the edge for the crust.

Step 4:

Next, I arrange very thin lemon slices all over the top. I like to overlap them slightly for that wow factor once it bakes.

Step 5:

I sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over everything and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 6:

Then I carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 7:

Once it’s out of the oven, I sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a hit of green and an herbal finish.

Step 8:

I let it cool for a minute or two before slicing and serving – the lemon caramelizes slightly in the oven, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Tips

If you’re unsure about eating lemon rinds, you can use Meyer lemons, which are sweeter and have a thinner peel. I also sometimes add a dollop of ricotta or a drizzle of hot honey for extra layers of flavor. And for a crispier base, I always recommend using a pizza stone if you have one!

Ways to Serve

I like to serve lemon pizza with a simple arugula salad on the side. It also works beautifully as a brunch centerpiece or even sliced into small squares for a light appetizer. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of chilled white wine pairs perfectly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat the lemon peels on Lemon Pizza?

Yes! Thinly sliced lemons soften in the oven and add a burst of flavor. For milder taste, use Meyer lemons or remove seeds before baking.

What cheese works best for Lemon Pizza?

I recommend fresh mozzarella and parmesan. The mozzarella melts beautifully while parmesan adds a salty kick that balances the citrus.

Can I add toppings to Lemon Pizza?

Definitely. Try goat cheese, arugula, prosciutto, or chili flakes if you like a little heat. Just don’t overload it – the lemon should still shine!

How do I store leftover Lemon Pizza?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crust crisp.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this lemon pizza a try! It’s such a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic and definitely a conversation starter at any meal. Let me know how yours turns out and share your own variations – I’m always looking for fresh ideas.

Happy Cooking!

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