There’s something truly captivating about the combination of fresh ingredients and tantalizing flavors when it comes to homemade pizza. Picture this: a crispy crust, adorned with a symphony of three luscious cheeses, a zesty hint of lemon, and the aromatic embrace of basil. This 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza has transformed my weeknight routine from mundane to marvelous, all while evoking that comforting feeling of a cozy Italian trattoria right in my kitchen.
After discovering this delightful recipe, I realized I could easily swap out the usual heavy toppings for lighter, vibrant options that offer a fresh twist. The savory garlic, the crunch of sesame seeds, and the surprising sweetness of honey take this pizza to a level that surpasses any takeout. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening in, every bite is a reminder that homemade food can be both simple and gourmet. Ready to impress your taste buds with a slice of sunshine? Let’s get cooking!
Why is 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza so special?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a pizza that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Flavor explosion: The mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan delivers a creamy, savory goodness that pairs perfectly with zesty lemon and fragrant basil.
Versatile: This pizza is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party centerpiece, everyone will love it!
Quick prep time: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you won’t be slaving away in the kitchen.
Healthy twist: The fresh toppings and lighter ingredients make it a guilt-free indulgence compared to greasy takeout.
You’ll find yourself craving this delightful dish again and again!
3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Ingredients
Get ready to create this mouthwatering treat!
For the Crust
• ½ lb ball of pizza dough – A homemade or store-bought dough makes for a great base to start your pizza journey.
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – This adds a rich flavor and helps crisp up the crust beautifully.
For the Toppings
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – It brings a salty, savory taste that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – This gooey favorite melts perfectly, providing the classic pizza experience.
• ¾ cup shredded provolone cheese – Offers a mild, slightly smoky flavor that ties the cheese trio together.
• 1 small Meyer or regular lemon, thinly sliced – Adds a refreshing zing that brightens every bite.
• Fresh basil – The aromatic essence of basil infuses the pizza with a delightful herbal note.
For the Seasoning
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds – These provide a lovely crunch and nutty aroma, enhancing the crust’s texture.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves – A touch of thyme elevates the profile of your 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza with its earthy flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped – An essential ingredient that adds depth and warmth.
• 1 shallot, halved, and leaves separated – The shallots add a sweet, mild onion flavor, perfect for pizza.
• Chili flakes – For those who love a little heat, a sprinkle adds excitement to every slice.
• 1 tsp honey – A drizzle of honey balances out the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
This recipe marries simplicity and gourmet flair, promising a pizza you’ll crave again and again. Happy cooking!
How to Make 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza
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Preheat the oven to 450°F. This high temperature ensures your crust will be perfectly crispy and your cheese will bubble beautifully.
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Flatten the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 10-12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough to a baking sheet, gently stretching it if needed.
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Brush the crust with olive oil, then sprinkle it generously with grated parmesan, toasted sesame seeds, fresh thyme, chopped garlic, separated shallot leaves, and chili flakes. Drizzle the honey over it all for added sweetness.
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Layer the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the seasoned crust. Arrange the thin lemon slices on top, then add a handful of torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
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Bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. It’s the moment of delicious magic!
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Garnish with additional fresh basil right after pulling it from the oven. This adds a lovely aroma and vibrant color. Slice your pizza and savor every bite!
Optional: Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before serving for an extra flavorful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza?
Enjoy your pizza experience even more with the perfect side dishes and drinks that enhance the vibrant flavors.
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Arugula Salad: A light, peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the zesty lemon notes of the pizza beautifully. The fresh greens provide a crisp contrast to the cheesy richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, adds a rustic touch. Their caramelized sweetness balances out the savory elements of the pizza.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread, brushed with olive oil or butter, provides a perfect side for pizza lovers. It’s ideal for scooping up any leftover cheese or sauce.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings a refreshing acidity that matches the pizza’s brightness. Its lightness allows the pizza’s flavors to shine through.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, lemon sorbet is a refreshing ending to your meal. The tangy-sweet sorbet continues the citrus theme, cleansing your palate after the rich pizza.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy sparkling water with a twist of lime offers a bubbly accompaniment to your meal. It’s a delightful way to refresh between bites, complementing the pizza’s bright flavors.
Each of these pairings elevates your 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza experience, turning an ordinary meal into a festive occasion. Enjoy exploring these delicious combinations!
3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Variations
Feel free to shake things up and make this pizza your own with exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust for a delicious option that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor.
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Veggie-Packed: Load up on seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes for a nutritious, colorful twist.
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Herbed Crust: Mix fresh basil or oregano into the pizza dough for an extra layer of aromatic deliciousness.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for a fiery flavor boost that will excite your taste buds.
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Sweet & Savory: Swap honey with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to add depth and a sweet tangy contrast to your cheese.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked mozzarella or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to introduce an intriguing, robust flavor profile.
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Creamy Richness: Try adding ricotta cheese dollops for extra creaminess that will melt beautifully into the pizza.
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Fruit Flair: Introduce fresh figs or pears in thin slices as a sweet contrast to the savory toppings for an elegant touch.
Let your creativity flow, and enjoy discovering new favorites!
Expert Tips for 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza
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Choose Quality Dough: Use fresh, high-quality pizza dough for the best flavor and texture. Homemade dough takes it to the next level, but store-bought can work in a pinch!
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Proper Oven Preheat: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F before baking. A hot oven helps achieve that golden, crispy crust we all love in a 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza.
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Layering Technique: Don’t overload your pizza with toppings. Keep a balance of cheese and vegetables to prevent sogginess. A little goes a long way!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends if you prefer. Gouda or feta can add a unique twist to the classic trio, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Fresh Basil Finish: Always add fresh basil after baking for the best aroma and flavor. Cooking basil can diminish its freshness, so layer it on just before serving!
Make Ahead Options
These 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and toppings (like the cheeses, lemon slices, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza, just roll out the dough, brush with olive oil, layer the toppings, and bake as directed. For optimal flavor, add fresh basil just after baking to maintain its vibrant color and aroma. With this approach, you’ll save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a delicious homemade meal.
How to Store and Freeze 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza
Room Temperature: Store leftover pizza in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours. If you can’t eat it right away, it’s best to refrigerate.
Fridge: Keep your 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. This preserves the flavor and texture of your pizza for future cravings!
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the crust crispy while warming the cheese.
3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for my pizza?
Absolutely! When choosing fruits and vegetables, look for vibrant colors and avoid any dark spots or blemishes. For lemons, seek out firm ones with a bright yellow hue, as they’ll give your pizza the zesty kick it needs. Fresh basil should smell fragrant and have vibrant green leaves—this ensures you’re getting the most flavor!
How should I store leftover 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza?
Very! After enjoying your pizza, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For added protection, a layer of parchment paper between slices will help keep them from sticking together. This way, you can easily enjoy leftovers without losing flavor or texture!
Can I freeze my 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza, and how?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to save leftover slices for later. To do this, first wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then wrap them again in foil for further protection. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What if my pizza doesn’t come out crispy?
No worries! If your crust isn’t as crispy as you hoped, it might be due to the oven not being hot enough or too many toppings weighing it down. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F before baking, and try reducing the amount of cheese or toppings next time. Remember, a balanced pizza is key to that perfect crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this pizza?
Indeed! This recipe contains dairy from the cheeses, so those with lactose intolerance should consider using lactose-free cheese alternatives. Additionally, always ensure that your pizza dough does not include any common allergens like gluten if preparing for someone with gluten sensitivity. It’s always a good idea to double-check ingredient labels and opt for substitutions when necessary!
Mouthwatering 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza You’ll Crave!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450°F to ensure a crispy crust and bubbling cheese.
- Flatten the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 10-12 inches in diameter.
- Transfer the dough to a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with parmesan, sesame seeds, thyme, garlic, shallot leaves, and chili flakes, then drizzle honey.
- Layer the mozzarella and provolone over the crust, add lemon slices and torn basil.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh basil after baking, slice, and serve.