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3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

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4.2 from 12 reviews

This vibrant 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza features a thin crust topped with a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses, enhanced by fresh thyme, garlic, shallots, chili flakes, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of honey. Thin lemon slices and fresh basil bring a refreshing, aromatic twist, baked to bubbly perfection in the oven for a delightful and flavorful homemade pizza experience.

Ingredients

Pizza Dough and Oil

  • 1/2 pound ball of pizza dough
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Cheese and Toppings

  • 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
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 small Meyer or regular lemon, thinly sliced
  • So much fresh basil (approximately 4-5 handfuls total, divided)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it is hot enough to create a crispy crust and melt the cheeses beautifully.
  2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, gently push and stretch the pizza dough into a thin circle about 10 to 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough carefully onto a baking sheet.
  3. Add Base Flavors: Lightly brush the dough crust with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with grated parmesan cheese, toasted sesame seeds, fresh thyme leaves, chopped garlic, shallot leaves, and a pinch of chili flakes. Drizzle the honey over these ingredients to add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory components.
  4. Top with Cheese and Lemon: Evenly spread shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the seasoned dough. Arrange the thin lemon slices on top of the cheese, ensuring they are spaced out for flavor distribution. Scatter a handful of torn fresh basil leaves over the pizza before baking.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles and melts nicely.
  6. Finish with Fresh Basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with 2 big handfuls of fresh basil leaves for a fresh aroma and pop of flavor. Slice and serve while warm.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, consider using a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder flavor.
  • Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, less tart taste compared to regular lemons.
  • Fresh basil added after baking maintains its bright color and aromatic qualities.
  • To toast sesame seeds, dry roast them in a pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant before adding.

Find it online: http://bitezly.com/3-cheese-lemon-basil-pizza-recipe/