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3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

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3.8 from 30 reviews

This vibrant 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza combines a crispy, golden crust with a flavorful blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses, accented by fresh lemon slices, aromatic basil, and a hint of honey. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal, this pizza is bursting with bright and savory flavors.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pizza Base and Toppings

  • 1/2 pound ball of pizza dough
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 shallot, halved and leaves separated
  • Chili flakes, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Cheeses & Garnish

  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 small Meyer or regular lemon, thinly sliced
  • A generous amount of fresh basil leaves (for topping and garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it’s sufficiently hot for baking the pizza and achieving a crispy crust.
  2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a thin 10-12 inch circle. Then, transfer it carefully onto a baking sheet.
  3. Add Olive Oil and Seasonings: Lightly brush the surface of the dough with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the dough, followed by the toasted sesame seeds, fresh thyme leaves, chopped garlic, separated shallot leaves, and chili flakes according to your heat preference. Drizzle the teaspoon of honey over these toppings to add a subtle sweetness.
  4. Apply the Cheeses and Lemon: Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the prepared surface. Arrange the thin lemon slices on top of the cheese, ensuring the slices are spread out to allow the lemon flavor to permeate during baking. Top with a handful of torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch before baking.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Place the baking sheet with the assembled pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter two large handfuls of fresh basil leaves over the top for fresh, vibrant flavor. Slice the pizza and serve hot for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Using Meyer lemons gives a sweeter, less acidic flavor compared to regular lemons.
  • To get a crispier crust, you may use a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your heat preference or omit for a mild flavor.
  • Fresh basil is added both before and after baking to maintain its bright color and fresh aroma.
  • Honey balances the tartness of the lemon slices, but you can reduce or omit it for less sweetness.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Pizza
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/3-cheese-lemon-basil-pizza-recipe/