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Lemon Pizza with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Fresh Thyme Recipe

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3.9 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 2-3)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Pizza with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Fresh Thyme is a bright and flavorful twist on classic pizza, combining the creamy textures of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses with fresh lemon zest and juice for a light, zesty flavor. Fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal note, and a drizzle of honey balances the tartness with a subtle sweetness. Perfectly baked on a hot pizza stone, this thin-crust pizza offers a delightful balance of citrus, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs, ideal for spring or summer dining.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Topping

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt thoroughly to prepare for the dough.
  3. Form Dough: Add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour and salt mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
  4. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops gluten and gives the dough structure.
  5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
  6. Prepare Cheese Mixture: While dough rises, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until well blended; set aside.
  7. Preheat Oven: Once dough has risen, preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
  8. Shape Dough: Punch down dough to release air bubbles, turn onto a floured surface, and roll into a thin 12-inch round.
  9. Transfer Dough: Place rolled dough on parchment paper or a pizza peel if using a stone, preparing it for baking.
  10. Add Toppings: Spread the prepared cheese and lemon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small crust border. Sprinkle fresh thyme evenly on top.
  11. Bake Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza (on parchment paper) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles and browns lightly.
  12. Finish and Serve: Remove pizza from oven, drizzle with olive oil and honey, and optionally sprinkle with red pepper flakes for some heat. Let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Adjust lemon zest and juice to increase or decrease lemon flavor intensity.
  • For a vegetarian option, ensure all cheeses are rennet-free.
  • This pizza pairs well with a light salad or fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sophiasrecipe.com/lemon-pizza-with-ricotta-mozzarella-and-fresh-thyme-recipe/