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Zesty Lemon Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella & Herbs

A bright and fresh pizza with lemon, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic herbs. A gourmet twist on classic pizza that’s quick and easy to make.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 2 pizzas
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Pizza Base
  • 1 pizza dough ball 12-inch size
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
Cheese
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella sliced or torn
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese optional
Flavor & Herbs
  • 1 lemon zest + 1 tbsp juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves optional
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan optional
Finishing
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for drizzling
  • 1 salt to taste
  • 1 black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Pizza stone (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone in the oven if using.
  2. Let the pizza dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  3. Mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
  5. Brush the lemon garlic oil evenly over the dough, leaving a small crust edge.
  6. Add ricotta in dollops (optional), then layer mozzarella evenly.
  7. Sprinkle basil, parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes (optional) over the cheese.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is melted.
  9. Remove from oven, add extra lemon zest, olive oil drizzle, and Parmesan if using.
  10. Slice and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh lemon zest and fresh mozzarella. Add herbs after baking for maximum freshness.