3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Pizza

Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most beloved foods across the globe, offering endless possibilities when it comes to toppings, flavors, and combinations. But if you’re looking for something a bit different—something that stands out from the typical tomato sauce and mozzarella concoctions—then our 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is the perfect option. This zesty and savory pizza combines the rich flavors of three cheeses with the refreshing tang of fresh Meyer lemon slices, all crowned with aromatic basil for a touch of freshness. It’s a creative twist on the classic pizza that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or just a fun treat, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your pizza rotation. Let’s dive into how you can make this 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza from scratch, using the freshest ingredients and simple steps to create a masterpiece in your kitchen.

Why Choose This 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza?

Before we get into the specifics of the recipe, let’s talk about why this pizza stands out and why you should give it a try.

1. Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses provides a rich, creamy texture with the perfect balance of saltiness. Add in the thin Meyer lemon slices, and you get a zesty contrast that elevates the entire pizza. The subtle heat from red pepper flakes and the crunch of sesame seeds tie everything together beautifully.
2. Quick and Easy: Even though this pizza has a gourmet vibe, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The entire process takes about 30 minutes, so you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
3. Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like basil and Meyer lemon slices give this pizza a bright and fresh flavor that you can’t get from pre-packaged pizzas. These fresh elements ensure that every bite is packed with goodness.
4. Customizable: This pizza serves as a perfect base for customization. You can swap out the cheese or herbs according to your preferences. You could even try it with a gluten-free crust or vegan cheese to suit dietary needs.

Now, let’s get into the recipe.

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Ingredients for 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

To make this delightful pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 Meyer lemon, thinly sliced and seeds removed
• Fresh basil leaves, for topping

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Directions for Making the 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up along with the oven. This will give your pizza a nice, crispy crust.

2. Prepare the Pizza Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Once it’s rolled out, transfer it to a piece of parchment paper. This will make it easier to transfer the pizza into the oven later.

3. Brush the Dough with Olive Oil

Using a pastry brush, coat the surface of the dough with olive oil. This will give the crust a golden color and enhance the flavor. Be sure to spread it evenly.

4. Add Garlic and Shallots

Grate garlic and thinly slice your shallot. Evenly distribute the grated garlic and shallots over the dough. These ingredients will add an aromatic, savory depth to the pizza.

5. Sprinkle the Cheese

Sprinkle the Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses over the dough, ensuring that they’re spread evenly. These three cheeses provide the perfect combination of creamy and tangy flavors. The mozzarella adds meltiness, the Parmesan contributes sharpness, and the provolone offers a hint of smoky richness.

6. Add Sesame Seeds and Seasonings

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the cheese for a nutty crunch. Then, season with dried thyme and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). The thyme will add a touch of earthiness, while the red pepper flakes introduce a little heat.

7. Arrange the Meyer Lemon Slices

Carefully arrange the thin Meyer lemon slices over the top of the pizza. The lemon’s bright, citrusy flavor will shine through as it bakes, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.

8. Bake the Pizza

Transfer the pizza, along with the parchment paper, onto a baking sheet or the preheated pizza stone. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

9. Add Fresh Basil Leaves

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. The basil adds a burst of freshness and color. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

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Tips for Making the Best 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the Meyer lemon and basil is key to this pizza’s success. Meyer lemons have a sweeter, less acidic taste than regular lemons, making them ideal for this recipe.
2. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to play around with the cheeses. If you prefer a more pungent flavor, you can add blue cheese or goat cheese for a bold twist. For a creamier texture, use more mozzarella or provolone.
3. Make Your Own Pizza Dough: If you have the time, homemade pizza dough will give your pizza an extra special touch. There are plenty of easy-to-follow recipes available online.
4. Serve with a Side Salad: To balance out the richness of the pizza, serve it with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple arugula salad or mixed greens will complement the flavors perfectly.

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FAQs About 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

1. Can I use regular lemon instead of Meyer lemon?
Yes, you can use regular lemon if Meyer lemons are not available. However, regular lemons are more acidic, so the flavor will be a bit sharper. To balance it out, you can add a little extra sugar or honey to the pizza.

2. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free pizza crust if you’re following a gluten-free diet. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Yes, you can freeze pizza dough for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using it.

4. Can I make this pizza vegan?
Yes, to make this pizza vegan, use vegan cheese and vegan butter for the crust. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based.

5. How can I make the crust crispier?
For a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet. This will help the bottom of the crust get extra crispy. You can also brush the crust with olive oil before baking for added crispiness.

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Conclusion

This 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a perfect balance of rich, creamy cheeses and fresh, tangy lemon slices, all topped off with a burst of aromatic basil. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a gathering, this pizza will surely impress. With its simple yet bold flavors, it’s the kind of dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Next time you’re craving something different from the usual pizza options, give this recipe a try—it’s guaranteed to be a hit. And with so many ways to customize it, you can make it your own while enjoying a fresh, flavorful, and unique pizza experience.

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