Revamp Your Pizza Game: Pizza Bianca w/ Lemon Delight!

There’s something enchanting about the aroma of fresh pizza wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think? It takes me right back to those cozy evenings spent with family, gathering around the table after a bustling day. The laughter, the stories, and the pleasure of sharing a meal that’s both comforting and delightful—these are the moments I cherish. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that embodies those memories and brings a refreshing twist to the table: Pizza Bianca with Lemon. This isn’t just any pizza; it’s a bright celebration of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!

This delightful pizza is based on the classic Italian white pizza, or Pizza Bianca, but with a zingy kick from fresh lemon. Each bite is a balance of creamy ricotta, earthy herbs, and the bright notes of citrus that elevate the entire experience. It’s perfect for a laid-back dinner or a special gathering, and trust me—it’s even better when shared with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and refreshing flavors that surprise and delight.
• Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy get-together.
• Creamy and cheesy goodness with a light, zesty finish.
• Adaptable with your favorite toppings or sauces.
• Easy to make—no fancy techniques required!

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll need:

• For the dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the topping:
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (try to get whole milk for the creaminess!)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon (fresh is always best)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into making this delightful pizza! I promise it’s simpler than you might think.

1. Make the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a larger mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour along with the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is where you can vent your day—take your time and really enjoy the process!
3. Let It Rise: Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. Don’t rush this step; it’s key for that lovely texture!
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, pop that in too, as it’ll give your crust that extra crispy edge.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, lemon juice, and zest. Give it a good stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can add a pinch of garlic powder if you like a garlicky bite!
6. Shape the Pizza: Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into your desired shape (a rustic round or rectangle works beautifully). Aim for about ½ inch thick—thin crust fans, rejoice!
7. Add the Toppings: Transfer your shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if you’re using a stone. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the base, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.
8. Bake the Pizza: Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. You know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
9. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh herbs and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Then slice it up and enjoy!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now, here’s where the fun really begins! Feel free to play around with your Pizza Bianca with Lemon:

• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy twist.
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a lovely kick!
• Swap out the ricotta for goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegan option, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and omit the eggs.
• Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an additional layer of flavor before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Imagine this: a cozy evening with a warm slice of Pizza Bianca, topped with fresh herbs, and perhaps a side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. You can even pair it with a chilled glass of white wine to complement the citrus notes. If you’re serving it on a weekend, throw in some roasted veggies or a classic caprese salad to complete the Italian vibe!

And let’s not forget dessert! If you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of lemon tart or some lovely gelato would make for a perfect ending to your meal.

Storage Tips

Let’s talk storage! If you have leftovers (which I hope you do because they’re so tasty), let the pizza cool completely before storing it. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you want to store it longer, you can freeze slices! Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. No sogginess allowed!

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead. Just knead it, then place it in the fridge instead of letting it rise. When you’re ready to make your pizza, let it come to room temperature before shaping it.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

No worries! A baking sheet works perfectly fine. Just preheat it in the oven to mimic that crispy pizza stone effect. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the pizza onto the hot baking sheet carefully.

Can I use different cheeses?

Of course! Feel free to mix it up. Adding a blend of mozzarella and provolone can give an extra gooey texture, or you could use a sprinkling of parmesan for a salty bite. The options are endless!

How do I make my pizza crust crispier?

For a crispier crust, roll your dough a little thinner, and ensure your oven is fully preheated. You can also bake it directly on the oven rack for a few minutes before adding toppings. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough can save you time and still yield a delicious pizza. Just follow the package instructions for prep. Then you can top it with your lemony goodness!

Conclusion

And there you have it—a delightful Pizza Bianca with Lemon that’s ready to brighten your table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pizza is sure to steal the show with its vibrant flavors. I hope you give it a try and make it your own! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please feel free to share your experiences in the comments. Happy cooking!

Revamp Your Pizza Game: Pizza Bianca w/ Lemon Delight!

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover a twist on classic Italian pizza with Pizza Bianca & lemon. Elevate your recipe game with this refreshing, zesty treat. Perfect for gatherings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups of all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 teaspoon of active dry yeast

1 teaspoon of salt

¾ cup of warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)

1 tablespoon of olive oil

1 cup of ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

1–2 tablespoons of olive oil (for drizzling)

Juice and zest of 1 lemon (fresh)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish

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Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a larger mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone inside if you have one.

In a bowl, combine ricotta, lemon juice, and zest. Stir and season with salt and pepper.

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick.

Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel, spread the ricotta mixture over it, and sprinkle with mozzarella.

Drizzle olive oil over the top.

Slide the pizza into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

A refreshing twist on classic Italian pizza, combining creamy ricotta, earthy herbs, and zesty lemon to create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 38 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 15 grams

Keywords: Pizza Bianca, Italian Pizza, Lemon Pizza, Ricotta Pizza, Easy Pizza Recipe