When the vibrant colors of spring peek through my window, I can’t help but feel inspired in the kitchen. That’s when I whipped up this Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, and Lemon Pizza, a delightful dish that perfectly captures the season’s essence. Imagine the fresh crunch of asparagus, the creamy richness of my homemade Spring Cream, and the subtle zing of lemon coming together in harmony on a crispy pizza crust.
In my journey as a home cook, I’ve learned that great pizza doesn’t always require hours in the kitchen. This recipe is surprisingly simple, allowing you to enjoy that fresh, artisanal flavor without the hassle. Best of all, it’s a vibrant way to bring a little joy to your family dinner or impress friends at your next gathering. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making a pizza that celebrates the spirit of spring and indulges your taste buds!
Why is Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza special?
Simple Preparation: This pizza takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Fresh Ingredients: The asparagus and lemon deliver a burst of spring freshness that elevates every bite.
Rich and Creamy: The homemade Spring Cream adds an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with the mozzarella and veggies.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a unique dish that will impress family and friends, making it a standout at any gathering.
Versatile Topping Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings for a truly personal touch!
This recipe is a delightful twist that revamps traditional pizza. So why not try it and enjoy an exciting culinary experience?
Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza Ingredients
For the Dough
• 1 ball dough (about 1-pound/304 g) – This is the foundation of your pizza; use store-bought or homemade for convenience.
For the Spring Cream
• 2/3 C Spring Cream (165 ml) – This rich cream adds luxurious texture; make it in advance for ease!
• 4 C heavy cream (960 ml) – Choose a high-quality option for the best flavor in your Spring Cream.
• 1 large clove garlic, pressed or minced – Garlic infuses flavor; adjust to taste for a punchier bite.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon – The fresh lemon brightens the cream and complements the asparagus beautifully.
For the Toppings
• 3 oz fresh mozzarella – Pinched into small chunks, it melts elegantly on the pizza.
• 2 C shredded low-moisture mozzarella (220 g) – This adds a delightful cheese pull; perfect for pizza lovers!
• About 2 C chopped fresh asparagus (270 g) – Asparagus gives a fresh crunch and vibrant color, perfect for spring.
• Fat pinch of red pepper flakes – A hint of spice balances the cream and richness of the cheese.
• Fine sea salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; sprinkle to your taste.
For the Finishing Touches
• 3 T grated hard cheese – Adds a nutty depth; feel free to substitute with your favorite aged cheese.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – A drizzle before serving elevates the dish with a rich, fruity note.
• 1 lemon wedge – Use for a fresh squeeze just before enjoying your pizza for an extra zing!
• 2 T chopped fresh chives – Their mild onion flavor complements the pizza beautifully.
• 1 handful basil (10 to 20 leaves) – Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor contrast.
• 1/2 C chopped fresh fennel fronds (25 g) – This unique addition enhances the freshness and adds a touch of anise flavor.
• 1/2 C chopped fresh chives (25 g) – A great aromatic touch that ties the pizza flavors together.
This Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to bring spring’s embrace into your kitchen!
How to Make Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza
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Blend the Spring Cream: Combine all ingredients for Spring Cream in a food processor. Blend until slightly emulsified, achieving a smooth texture. This creamy mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5 days.
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Preheat the Oven: Place your pizza stone on the lowest shelf of the oven. Turn it to the highest temperature and heat the stone for a minimum of one hour, ensuring a crispy base.
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Prepare the Dough: If your dough has been refrigerated, allow it to warm up at room temperature, covered with a slightly damp towel, until it has doubled in size.
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Shape the Dough: Gently press your fingers into the dough, flattening the center and working your way outwards to form a disc about 7–9 inches (17–23 cm) wide.
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Stretch the Dough: Carefully stretch the dough to about 14–16 inches (35.5 to 40.5 cm) in diameter while ensuring it doesn’t tear.
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Transfer to the Peel: Dust a pizza peel with semolina flour. Gently transfer the stretched dough onto the peel to prepare for topping.
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Add the Cream and Toppings: Cover the dough with Spring Cream, then add chunks of fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, and the chopped asparagus. Season with a sprinkle of fine sea salt.
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Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for about 4 minutes, allowing the crust to begin browning.
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Broil for Crispiness: Switch your oven setting from bake to broil until the crust begins to blister. Keep a close eye, as this could take up to 10 minutes total but aims for a golden finish.
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Finish with Seasoning: Remove the pizza from the oven and top it with grated hard cheese, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a spritz of fresh lemon juice, and the chopped chives for added flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this pizza truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to enjoy this dish without the wheat. Many stores offer delicious pre-made options that bake beautifully.
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Vegetarian Delight: Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra veggie punch. These ingredients will complement the asparagus and add even more flavor.
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Spice it Up: For a kick, incorporate jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in addition to the red pepper flakes. A little heat elevates the entire pizza experience.
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the cheeses for a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream for the Spring Cream. You’ll still achieve that creamy richness without any dairy.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano alongside basil for a more aromatic topping. This adds depth and a fragrant aroma to your pizza.
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Cheesy Variations: Try different cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for a rich twist. These varieties offer unique textures that will elevate your dish.
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Add Proteins: Toss on some cooked chicken or prosciutto for a heartier pizza. The savory flavors will beautifully complement the cream and veggies.
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Zesty Lemon Kick: Add more lemon zest or even lemon slices on top before baking. This intensifies the citrus flavor, making each bite even more refreshing!
Tips for the Best Asparagus Pizza
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh asparagus and high-quality cheese to elevate the flavors in your Asparagus pizza. Freshness truly makes a difference!
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Dough Temperature: Ensure the dough warms up at room temperature before shaping. Cold dough can be difficult to stretch and may lead to a tough crust.
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Watch the Oven: Keep a vigilant eye on the pizza while broiling. The difference between a perfectly blistered crust and a burnt one can happen in just a few minutes!
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Layer Wisely: Spread the Spring Cream evenly before adding toppings. This ensures each bite is bursting with flavor rather than overwhelming the crust.
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to mix in other vegetables or meats! Experimenting can make your Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon pizza uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza?
Creating the perfect meal is about harmony, balancing flavors and textures that elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight adds a rich, toasty contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy pizza.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with seasonal vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts the richness of the pizza. It’s the perfect palate cleanser!
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc enhances the lemon notes in the pizza. Enjoying it chilled makes for a delightful pairing!
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Grilled Vegetables: The smoky char from grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant brings depth and a hint of summer to your meal.
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Pasta Primavera: Tender pasta tossed with fresh spring vegetables echoes the vibrant flavors of the pizza while adding a comforting element to your feast.
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Lemon Sorbet: Serve this refreshing sorbet as a light dessert to cleanse the palate post-pizza. The bright lemon flavor is a lovely finish!
Imagine relishing these delightful sides alongside your homemade Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza, turning a simple dinner into a spring-inspired celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture, rather than microwaving.
Freezer: If you have excess pizza, wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. This keeps your Asparagus pizza delicious and ready to go!
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy with a fresh squeeze of lemon!
Make Ahead Options
These Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the Spring Cream up to 5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the dough can be prepared and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before use. When you’re ready to create your pizza masterpiece, allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise as instructed. Simply stretch it out, add the Spring Cream, fresh mozzarella, and asparagus, then bake following the recipe. This approach ensures your pizza will be just as delicious and fresh, while saving you time on busy weeknights!
Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh asparagus for this pizza?
Absolutely! Look for bright green stalks with firm, tightly closed tips. Avoid any asparagus with dark spots or wilting, as this indicates they are past their prime. Fresh asparagus should snap easily when bent.
What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
Very! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, I recommend reheating in the oven instead of the microwave. Just pop it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes.
Can I freeze Asparagus, Spring Cream, Onion, Lemon Pizza?
Yes! If you find yourself with extra pizza, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps flavors intact. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What do I do if my pizza dough is too sticky to handle?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry; this happens from time to time! Lightly dust your work surface and hands with flour to prevent sticking. If it’s still tacky, add a sprinkle of flour until it becomes manageable. Just remember to not over-flour, as that can change the dough’s texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this pizza?
Certainly! This pizza recipe contains dairy from the creams and cheeses, so it is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. If you’re cooking for someone with special dietary needs, consider substituting the heavy cream and cheeses with non-dairy alternatives such as cashew cream or plant-based cheese.
How long does the Spring Cream keep in the refrigerator?
Your homemade Spring Cream can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This way, you have a rich and creamy base ready for the next pizza night or even for drizzling over salads or roasted vegetables!
Asparagus Spring Cream Lemon Pizza That’s a Game Changer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Spring Cream: Combine all ingredients for Spring Cream in a food processor and blend until slightly emulsified.
- Preheat the Oven: Place your pizza stone on the lowest shelf and turn to the highest temperature for at least one hour.
- Prepare the Dough: Allow dough to warm at room temperature, covered with a damp towel, until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Press fingers into the dough, flattening the center to form a disc of about 7-9 inches.
- Stretch the Dough: Carefully stretch to about 14-16 inches in diameter.
- Transfer to the Peel: Dust the peel with semolina flour and transfer the stretched dough.
- Add the Cream and Toppings: Cover the dough with Spring Cream and add the other toppings.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer to the oven and bake for about 4 minutes.
- Broil for Crispiness: Switch to broil until the crust blisters, monitoring closely.
- Finish with Seasoning: Top with grated cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and chives.