Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving a pizza that’s dazzlingly fresh and zingy, Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Juicy lemon, fragrant herbs, and molten mozzarella meet chewy, golden-edged crust for a slice of pure sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you—each element in Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza plays a special role, from the punchy lemon zest to the gooey cheese and the chewy crust that holds it all together. Here’s what you’ll need to unleash the magic!

• Pizza dough: Use a homemade, no-knead dough for authentic flavor, or save time with a good-quality store-bought ball.
• Extra virgin olive oil: The base of our zesty brine, lending fruity richness that soaks right into the crust.
• Fresh parsley: This fresh herb brightens every layer—mixed into the brine and sprinkled over the finished pizza.
• Garlic clove (grated): Just a touch infuses the pizza with subtle, mellow warmth.
• Lemon zest & lemon juice: Both the zest and juice give the brine its irresistible zing and aroma (and extra is added at the end!).
• Fine salt & black pepper: Balances and heightens all those vibrant flavors.
• Fresh mozzarella (or shredded firm mozzarella): Melty, stretchy, and delicious—dab with paper towels if using fresh, water-packed cheese.
• Parmesan cheese: Shaved over at the end for deeply savory finish.
• Additional parsley, lemon juice, and black pepper: To finish it all off and really dial up the flavor!

Variations

This Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza is endlessly adaptable to whatever you’re craving or what’s hiding in your fridge! Don’t be afraid to take a few creative detours—here are some variations to spark your pizza night imagination.

• Add prosciutto or smoked salmon: For extra richness and a beautiful salty twist, top after baking!
• Try arugula or baby spinach: Toss fresh greens on right before serving for peppery crunch and gorgeous color.
• Vegan twist: Swap in your favorite vegan cheese and use plant-based yogurt in the brine for dairy-free magic.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle with chili flakes or thinly sliced fresh chili for a bright hit of heat.

How to Make Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza

Step 1: Prep and Shape the Dough

If using homemade dough, follow your recipe up to the shaping stage. Once ready, place the dough ball on a sheet of parchment and gently press and stretch it with your fingertips until it forms a rustic rectangle about 9×13 inches. This style leaves airy bubbles and chewy edges—perfection!

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Mozzarella

Slice or tear your mozzarella (aim for ½-inch thick pieces if you’re using fresh, water-packed balls). If it’s especially wet, dab it with paper towels to keep your base from getting soggy—this ensures gorgeously melty cheese with no soggy spots.

Step 3: Shake Up the Lemon Brine

Combine the extra virgin olive oil, water, chopped parsley, grated garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small jar with a lid. Shake vigorously until everything’s emulsified into a punchy, aromatic elixir—this is the secret to deep flavor all through the crust!

Step 4: Assemble and Top the Pizza

Once your dough is shaped on parchment, use your fingers to make a few dimples in the surface—these little wells will catch the lemon brine. Drizzle the brine evenly over the dough, letting it settle into those dimples, then scatter the mozzarella evenly on top. Each bite will get an irresistible taste of everything.

Step 5: Bake

Carefully slide your pizza onto a hot pizza stone (or a preheated baking tray) in your oven. Bake at high heat until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is deeply golden-brown, about 8–10 minutes. Ovens vary, so keep an eye out for those golden edges and caramelized mozzarella patches!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once baked, immediately top your Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice, grated parmesan, and a flurry of fresh parsley. A grind of black pepper or a hint of chili flakes (if you love a little heat) makes it truly sing. Slice and serve while it’s still gloriously hot and gooey!

How to Serve Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza

Garnishes

This pizza practically begs for a shower of fresh parsley and a final squeeze of lemon to bring out all those vibrant, aromatic notes. A bit of grated parmesan adds creamy, salty depth, while a dusting of black pepper or chili flakes kicks up the complexity—don’t be shy with the finishing touches!

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza with a simple, leafy arugula salad or a bright tomato-basil salad for max refreshment. Some roasted seasonal veggies or marinated olives round out the meal beautifully without overpowering the delicacy of the pizza.

Creative Ways to Present

For party flair, slice the pizza into slim strips or squares and serve on a wooden board with fresh lemon wedges. Layer in some microgreens or edible flowers for brunch, or drizzle with good olive oil for an elegant appetizer. It’s always a show-stopper, whether rustic or refined!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza slices in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, staying flavorful and surprisingly fresh—the bright citrus really helps!

Freezing

Freeze cooled pizza slices, separated with parchment, in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. For the best texture, reheat straight from frozen—no thawing needed.

Reheating

Pop cold or frozen slices right onto a hot skillet or a preheated oven tray for a few minutes—this revives the crust’s crispiness and re-melts the cheese. If using a microwave, cover the slice with a damp paper towel for a softer finish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Ready to taste pure sunshine? Make this Lemon Brine Mozzarella Pizza and let its tangy, melty charm light up your table. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t forget to share a slice with someone you love!

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