Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it heats up for a crispier crust.

Prepare the lemon basil sauce:

• In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

• Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the pizza:

• Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness (about 12 inches for a standard pizza).

• Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone. If you’re using a baking sheet, lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper.

• Brush the edges of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder (optional) for extra flavor.

Assemble the pizza:

• Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over the pizza dough.

• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ricotta.

• Add the grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty kick.

Bake the pizza:

• Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finish with the lemon basil sauce:

• Once the pizza is out of the oven, drizzle the prepared lemon basil sauce over the top.

• Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Serve:

• Slice and serve your 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza immediately, and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy cheese and zesty lemon flavor!