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Lemon Pesto Pizza

Lemon Pesto Pizza
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Lemon Pesto Pizza is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring zesty lemon-infused pesto, creamy mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses atop a perfectly crisp pizza crust. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make pizza combines fresh basil, garlic, citrus, and nuts for a deliciously bright twist on classic pizza that’s healthy, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

  • 1 store-bought or homemade pizza dough (enough for one 12-inch pizza)

Lemon Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Topping

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Extra lemon zest
  • Drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lemon Pesto: Blend fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts (or walnuts), grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a food processor. While blending, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Roll Out the Pizza Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll your pizza dough into a thin circle or rectangle with even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
  3. Assemble the Pizza: Spread a generous, even layer of the prepared lemon pesto over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with freshly torn basil leaves. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Spread pesto thinly and evenly to avoid a soggy crust.
  • Preheat your oven thoroughly to achieve a crispy crust.
  • Allow dough to come to room temperature before rolling to prevent tearing.
  • Consider baking on a pizza stone for a crunchier bottom crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pesto pizza, lemon pizza, fresh basil pizza, easy weeknight dinner, gluten-free pizza, vegetarian pizza, homemade pesto

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/lemon-pesto-pizza/