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3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 2–3)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a bright and flavorful twist on classic pizza. With creamy mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and tangy goat cheese, every bite bursts with fresh lemon zest and aromatic basil. It’s a fresh, light option that’s perfect for spring or summer meals.


Ingredients

  • 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

  • Cornmeal or flour for dusting


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats.

  2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.

  3. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the surface.

  4. Layer the shredded mozzarella, goat cheese, and Parmesan evenly on the dough.

  5. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the cheese and drizzle with lemon juice. Add red pepper flakes if using.

  6. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

  7. Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

  8. Remove from the oven and top with torn fresh basil.

  9. Slice and serve hot.


Notes

  • For extra crispiness, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone.

  • You can swap goat cheese with ricotta for a milder flavor.

  • Add arugula after baking for a peppery bite.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 of pizza
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg