Lemon Pizza Recipe

The Ultimate Lemon Pizza Recipe You Have to Try

I was a bit skeptical when I first heard about lemon on a pizza, but I’m so glad I gave it a try. The bright, citrusy flavor cuts through the rich cheese beautifully, creating a refreshing and incredibly satisfying meal.

It’s become a staple in my home, and I find myself making it for every occasion. If you’re looking for other unique dishes, you might also like our guide to the Caprese Bread Recipe. This lemon pizza, however, is a true showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this pizza several times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it from great to absolutely unforgettable.

• I always insist on using fresh mozzarella. It has a superior creamy texture and flavor compared to pre-shredded, low-moisture mozzarella. Just remember to pat it very dry with paper towels to prevent a watery pizza.
• Don’t skip the dimpling step! I found that making little wells in the dough with my fingers really helps trap the olive oil brine, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine. It gives the pizza a subtle, warm heat that beautifully contrasts the bright lemon flavor.

Variations to Try

This lemon pizza is a fantastic base for creativity. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or use up ingredients you have on hand. It’s one of those versatile dinner recipes you can return to again and again.

• Add Protein: Thinly sliced prosciutto or crispy pancetta added after baking provides a salty, savory contrast.
• Go Green: Scatter a handful of fresh arugula over the pizza right before serving for a fresh, peppery bite.
• Cheese Please: Swap out some of the mozzarella for creamy ricotta dollops or tangy feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use your favorite dairy-free mozzarella and parmesan alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Equipment You Need

You don’t need a full pizzeria setup, but a few key tools will make the process smoother.

• Pizza Stone or Steel: Essential for achieving a super crispy, evenly baked crust.
• Pizza Peel or Baking Sheet: Helps you safely transfer the pizza to and from the hot oven.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents the dough from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
• Small Jar or Bowl: For mixing and emulsifying the delicious lemon-garlic brine.
• Cheese Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Pizza Recipe

Presentation can make this simple dish feel like a gourmet meal.

• Serve it hot and fresh from the oven on a rustic wooden cutting board.
• Garnish with a few whole parsley leaves or a sprig of fresh basil for an extra pop of color.
• Pair it with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to complete the meal.
• For a surprising dessert pairing, try serving it before a sweet treat like our Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe. The fresh citrus prepares the palate beautifully.

Calories Count

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, assuming the pizza is cut into 4 servings.

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg

How to Store Lemon Pizza Recipe

Leftovers are just as delicious if you store them properly.

• Allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this unique and flavorful pizza.

• A Refreshing Twist: The bright lemon flavor is an exciting and delicious change from traditional tomato-based pizzas.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a fast cooking time, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Incredibly Versatile: It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, from prosciutto to fresh greens.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique flavor profile is sophisticated enough for adults but simple enough for kids to enjoy.

More About This Delicious Recipe

This Lemon Pizza recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tangy citrus, savory garlic, and creamy mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that is both light and satisfying.

It’s perfect for a summer evening on the patio, a cozy winter night, or a fun pizza night with the family.

The use of a simple brine instead of a heavy sauce keeps the dish feeling fresh and allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own

Ben Carraoli

Lemon Pizza Recipe

I was a bit skeptical when I first heard about lemon on a pizza, but I’m so glad I gave it a try. The bright, citrusy flavor cuts through the rich cheese beautifully, creating a refreshing and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s become a staple in my home, and I find myself making it for every occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 ball of pizza dough: You can use a store-bought ball for convenience or make your own. A quality no-knead dough works wonderfully.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This forms the base of your brine adding richness and helping to crisp the crust.
• 1 tablespoon water: This helps emulsify the brine making it easier to spread over the dough.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped: Fresh herbs provide a burst of color and a clean, peppery taste that complements the lemon.
• 1 small garlic clove grated: Grating the garlic allows its flavor to infuse the olive oil brine without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: This is where the magic happens. Zest provides a concentrated lemon aroma and flavor without the bitterness of the juice.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A little juice in the brine adds a tangy kick.
• ¼ teaspoon fine salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of mild spice to balance the citrus.
• 5 oz fresh mozzarella: For the best melt and flavor use fresh mozzarella packed in water. Be sure to pat it dry to avoid a soggy pizza.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice for finishing: A final squeeze of fresh juice right before serving brightens the entire pizza.
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with mozzarella.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for finishing: More fresh herbs at the end add a final pop of freshness.
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: For an extra kick.

Method

 

1. Begin by preparing your pizza dough. If you’re using a homemade recipe, follow it through the final shaping stage. For store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start. This makes it easier to stretch. Place a pizza stone in your oven and preheat it to the highest temperature, usually around 500°F (260°C). A hot stone is key to a crispy crust.
2. While the oven preheats, make the flavorful brine. In a small glass jar or bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, water, chopped parsley, grated garlic, lemon zest, one teaspoon of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar and shake it vigorously until the mixture is well-emulsified. This brine will act as your “sauce,” infusing every bite with zesty goodness.
3. Place your pizza dough on a piece of parchment paper. Gently press and stretch it out into a 9×13 inch rectangle or a 12-inch circle. Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Pour the lemon-garlic brine evenly over the top, allowing it to pool in the dimples you created. Next, scatter the pieces of fresh mozzarella cheese over the brine.
4. Carefully transfer the parchment paper with your pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. A pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet can help with this. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes.
5. Once the pizza is baked, carefully remove it from the oven. Immediately drizzle it with the final tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining fresh parsley over the top. For a little extra spice, add some freshly ground black pepper or red pepper flakes. Slice it up and serve right away for the best experience.