If you’re craving a fresh take on homemade pizza, this Lemon Pizza is the zesty twist your dinner needs.
With a golden crust, lemon herb brine, gooey mozzarella, and a final drizzle of lemon juice and parmesan, every slice is vibrant, aromatic, and packed with flavor.
It’s a bold, simple, and unforgettable vegetarian pizza that captures the brightness of citrus with the comfort of cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor meets rich mozzarella and herbs
Easy to make with store-bought or homemade dough
Unique and refreshing – perfect for summer
No tomato sauce needed
Flexible toppings – add more cheese or greens
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pizza dough – Use store-bought or homemade dough (about 1 ball)
Mozzarella – Fresh mozzarella for melt and creaminess
Parmesan – Adds sharp, salty finish
Lemon brine – A flavorful mix of olive oil, lemon zest, juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper
Lemon juice – Finishing drizzle to brighten each bite
Fresh parsley – Garnish for color and freshness
Black pepper – For seasoning and heat
Pro Tips Before You Start
Preheat your pizza stone or oven tray for a crisp crust
Use fresh mozzarella but pat it dry to avoid soggy dough
Make lemon brine ahead to let flavors blend
Stretch the dough gently from the center to avoid tearing
Finish with lemon juice after baking to preserve its fresh taste
How to Make Lemon Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Roll or stretch out your dough onto parchment paper to about a 9×13-inch rectangle.
Let it rest at room temp while you prep toppings.
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or inverted baking tray inside.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Brine
In a jar, combine all ingredients and shake well:
2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp water, 1 tbsp chopped parsley, 1 grated garlic clove
1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Dimple the pizza dough with your fingers.
Spoon or brush the lemon brine over the surface, letting it settle into the dimples.
Top with sliced or shredded mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Use a pizza peel or baking sheet to carefully transfer the dough (with parchment) onto the hot stone.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp grated parmesan, and 1 tbsp chopped parsley.
Add black pepper or chili flakes to taste. Slice and serve hot!
What to Serve With Lemon Pizza
Arugula salad – The peppery bite pairs perfectly
Chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade
Roasted vegetables for a hearty side
Olives or marinated artichokes to keep the Mediterranean feel
Variations / Substitutions
Use burrata or ricotta for a creamier twist
Add arugula or spinach after baking
Top with prosciutto or smoked salmon for non-vegetarian versions
Try with whole wheat pizza dough for extra fiber
Add red pepper flakes or hot honey for heat
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Warm in a toaster oven or skillet until cheese is melty and crust is crisp
Freeze: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month
FAQs
Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, regular lemons work fine.
Meyer lemons are slightly sweeter but not essential.
Can I make this pizza without cheese?
Yes, skip the mozzarella and add more herbs and brine for a focaccia-like finish.
What kind of dough works best?
A classic Neapolitan or NY-style dough with good elasticity will crisp up beautifully.
Can I grill this pizza instead of baking?
Yes! Just grill the dough directly for a minute per side, add toppings, and grill until cheese melts.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, you can prep the brine and dough ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
What if I don’t have a pizza stone?
Use an inverted baking tray or a cast iron skillet preheated in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pizza is an elegant and easy dish that surprises everyone with its refreshing flavors.
Whether you’re a lemon lover, a cheese fanatic, or just looking for something different, this recipe balances brightness, creaminess, and crunch in every bite.
Perfect for summer evenings or as a sophisticated party appetizer!
