This Lemon White Pizza is a tasty twist on a classic! With a creamy white sauce, fresh lemon zest, and yummy cheese, it’s light and full of flavor.
Let’s be real, the lemony zing makes it fun and refreshing. I love serving it with a salad for a perfect meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or try making it at home. If you’re gluten-free, look for pre-made gluten-free pizza crusts or try a cauliflower crust for a lighter alternative.
Ricotta Cheese: This is key for creaminess. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese can work in a pinch. Just blend it until smooth for a similar texture.
Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic for pizzas, feel free to mix it up! Try feta for a tangy twist, or even goat cheese for a stronger flavor. For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for zesting and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice could suffice, but use it sparingly to avoid an overly tart taste.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring brightness! If you don’t have parsley or basil, try oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs can also be used but reduce the quantity.
How Do I Make the Perfect Pizza Dough?
Making pizza dough can be intimidating, but it’s simpler than you think. The key is to knead it well and let it rise properly. If you’re using store-bought dough, be sure it’s at room temperature before you roll it out.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough gently to your desired thickness. Avoid overworking it to keep it light and airy.
- If your dough is sticking, don’t hesitate to sprinkle extra flour. But too much can make it tough, so use sparingly.
- Before adding toppings, let the rolled dough rest for 10 minutes. This helps it relax and prevents shrinking during baking.
How to Make Lemon White Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 lemon, zested and sliced into thin rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lemon white pizza takes about 20 minutes of prep time and another 12-15 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it gets nice and hot for a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. If you prefer a thinner crust, go for it! Once rolled out, transfer the dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy moving later.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a little space around the edges for the crust. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta. Now, arrange the thin lemon slices over the cheese layer. Drizzle with olive oil and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
5. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully transfer your pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone if you’re using one). Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and delicious.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your pizza is out of the oven, immediately sprinkle it with the chopped parsley and basil if you’re using it. Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice it up. Enjoy the zesty and cheesy goodness of your lemon white pizza warm!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and will work just fine for this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for rolling out and using the dough, and it will turn out delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese for a similar texture. Blend it for a smoother consistency or simply drain and use it directly. Cream cheese can also be used, but may give a richer flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through for a crispy crust!
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Pizza?
Yes, feel free to customize your pizza! Vegetables like spinach, artichokes, or mushrooms pair wonderfully with the lemon flavor. Just be mindful of moisture—if you add wet ingredients, try to sauté them first or pat them dry to avoid a soggy crust.
