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3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza
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The 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a vibrant and fresh pizza combining the creaminess of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses with bright lemon zest and fresh basil. Perfectly balanced with a crispy crust and aromatic herbs, this pizza offers a sophisticated yet simple homemade gourmet experience, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

  • 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (infused with minced garlic)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheeses

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

Flavorings

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your preferred thickness, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) to achieve a perfectly crispy crust.
  2. Spread garlic-infused olive oil: Lightly brush the dough surface with olive oil infused with minced garlic, adding subtle aroma and a flavorful base for the cheeses.
  3. Add the cheeses: Evenly dollop ricotta cheese across the dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese to mostly cover the surface, then grate Parmesan cheese evenly on top, creating a delicious mix of textures and flavors.
  4. Bake until bubbly and golden: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the crust edges turn golden brown and the cheese melts and slightly browns.
  5. Add lemon zest and basil: After baking, immediately sprinkle fresh lemon zest and torn basil leaves over the pizza to preserve their freshness and aroma.
  6. Final drizzle and seasoning: Drizzle more olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pizza. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then slice and serve promptly for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh cheeses for better melting and vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t overload toppings to maintain a crispy crust.
  • Preheat the oven thoroughly for a blistered, tender crust.
  • Add lemon zest and basil last to keep their freshness and prevent bitterness.
  • Experiment with dough thickness to get your desired crust texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: 3 cheese pizza, lemon basil pizza, homemade pizza, fresh herb pizza, easy pizza recipe, gluten-free pizza

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