Description

This 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a summer-inspired homemade pizza loaded with zesty citrus, melty mozzarella and provolone, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of sesame and thyme. Light, cheesy, and herbaceous, it’s perfect for warm evenings, picnics, or a fresh twist on pizza night. Ready in under 30 minutes—no grill or fancy oven required.

Ingredients

Scale

½ lb pizza dough
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 shallot, halved and separated into layers
Pinch of chili flakes
1 tsp honey
¾ cup shredded mozzarella
¾ cup shredded provolone
1 small Meyer or regular lemon, thinly sliced
2 large handfuls fresh basil leaves

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 450°F (230°C). On a floured surface, stretch pizza dough into a 10–12 inch round. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Build Flavor Base:
Brush dough with olive oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan, sesame seeds, thyme, garlic, shallots, chili flakes, and drizzle honey over top.
Add Cheese & Lemon:
Scatter mozzarella and provolone evenly. Top with thin lemon slices and a few torn basil leaves.
Bake the Pizza:
Bake for 10–15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Top & Serve:
Finish with lots of fresh basil. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

Use Meyer lemons for a milder, sweeter citrus bite.

Preheat a pizza stone or steel for an extra-crispy crust.

Sea salt on top after baking enhances brightness.

Store-bought dough is perfectly fine—bring to room temp before stretching.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired