Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Ricotta Pizza with Crispy Crust and Fresh Herbs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 57 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 2–3 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Pizza is a bright and flavorful twist on classic pizza, featuring a crispy crust topped with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, fresh lemon slices, and a touch of garlic and lemon zest. Perfectly baked to golden perfection and finished with fresh basil or arugula and a drizzle of honey, it offers a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and sweet notes that’s sure to impress.


Ingredients

Pizza Base

  • 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese Toppings

  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Flavoring

  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 small lemon, thinly sliced and seeds removed
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches (Optional)

  • Fresh basil or arugula for topping
  • Honey for drizzling


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat thoroughly, ensuring a crispy crust.
  2. Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 10–12 inch circle. Transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer later.
  3. Assemble the Pizza: Lightly brush the dough with olive oil. Evenly spread the ricotta cheese over the base, followed by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the top.
  4. Add Flavorings: Sprinkle the minced garlic, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes over the cheeses. Arrange thin lemon slices evenly atop the pizza. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavors.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheeses are bubbling and slightly browned.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil or arugula if desired. Drizzle with honey for a subtle sweet contrast. Slice into portions and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, less bitter citrus flavor.
  • For added richness, try spreading a light layer of pesto under the ricotta before adding the cheeses.
  • If you don’t have a pizza stone, a preheated heavy baking sheet works well as an alternative.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder flavor.