Description
Savor Mediterranean magic with this three cheese lemon basil pizza that blends zesty citrus notes and herbal freshness. Crispy crust, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil invite you to explore a delightful culinary journey through Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses:
- 3/4 cup (177 ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup (177 ml) shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) grated parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 shallot (halved, and cloves separated)
- 1 small Meyer or regular lemon (thinly sliced)
- 1 big bunch of fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh thyme leaves
Other Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound (226 grams) ball of pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) toasted sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
Instructions
- Stretch pizza dough into a thin 10-12 inch circular shape on a lightly dusted work surface, ensuring an even thickness.
- Carefully transfer the delicate dough onto a baking sheet, maintaining its shape and integrity.
- Drizzle olive oil across the entire surface of the dough, creating a light and flavorful base.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, thyme, and chili flakes evenly over the oiled crust, distributing the seasonings for maximum flavor coverage.
- Layer mozzarella and provolone cheeses across the prepared pizza base, creating a rich and creamy foundation.
- Artfully arrange thinly sliced lemon rounds atop the cheese layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Scatter torn fresh basil leaves generously over the pizza, adding a vibrant aromatic element.
- Slide the pizza into a preheated 450°F oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, watching for a golden crispy crust and bubbling cheese.
- Once removed from the oven, garnish with an additional handful of fresh basil leaves to enhance the herbaceous profile.
- Slice into wedges and serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Notes
- Optimize dough thickness by using a rolling pin for even, crispy crust that ensures perfect texture and consistent baking.
- Try citrus intensity by removing lemon seeds and thinly slicing lemons, which prevents bitter notes and enhances bright flavor profile.
- Enhance lactose-free option by substituting dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives like cashew mozzarella or almond-based provolone for similar melting qualities.
- Elevate herb freshness by adding delicate basil leaves after baking to preserve their vibrant color, aroma, and delicate texture without wilting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg