Zesty Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza: Gourmet Twist Made Simple

This Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza with Lemon Zest is a dream come true for pizza lovers who enjoy a touch of gourmet in their meals. The salty richness of prosciutto, the peppery freshness of arugula, and the bright pop of lemon zest all balance beautifully over a perfectly baked crust. I’ve made this one countless times for family pizza nights and it never fails to impress especially with a side salad and sparkling water. It’s quick, elegant, and always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This pizza combines simple yet high-quality ingredients that elevate the flavor with minimal effort. The salty prosciutto and fresh arugula create a gourmet touch, while the lemon zest brightens every bite. It’s perfect for entertaining or adding a special flair to family dinner night without spending hours in the kitchen.

Simple Ingredients

These few ingredients pack a flavorful punch:

• Pizza Dough: The base that bakes up crispy and chewy, holding all the tasty toppings together.
• Pizza Sauce or Crushed Tomatoes: Adds moisture and richness as the flavorful base.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Melts into creamy goodness, binding everything deliciously.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced and salty, it adds a luxurious flavor.
• Baby Arugula: Offers a peppery bite that balances the richness.
• Lemon Zest: A bright pop of citrus that wakes up the flavors.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Lightly dresses the arugula for a silky touch.
• Shaved Parmesan (optional): For an extra cheesy flourish.

Recipe Timing & Yield

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

What is Needed

• 1 ball pizza dough
• ½ cup pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 6–8 thin slices prosciutto
• 1 cup baby arugula
• Zest of ½ lemon + lemon wedge for serving
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Shaved Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. On a floured surface, stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 10-12 inch round.
3. Spread sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top.
4. Transfer to a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
5. Remove from oven. Drape prosciutto slices over hot pizza.
6. Toss arugula with olive oil and lemon zest. Scatter over pizza.
7. Add Parmesan shavings (if using) and a final squeeze of lemon. Slice and serve.

Top Tips

1. Let your dough come to room temperature before stretching for easier handling.
2. Use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet for a crisper crust.
3. Add prosciutto after baking to keep it tender, not crispy.
4. Dress arugula just before serving to keep it fresh.
5. Try a bit of chili oil or red pepper flakes for extra zing if your family likes heat.

Recipe Variations

• Substitute arugula with baby spinach.
• Try burrata or goat cheese instead of mozzarella.
• Add a thin layer of fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory twist.

Recommended Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Zester
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Make Ahead Tips

You can stretch the dough and prepare toppings in advance. Store dough in fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes for best texture.

What To Serve With This Recipe

• Mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Sparkling water or crisp white wine
• Roasted garlic knots

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

This pizza takes inspiration from classic Italian flavor pairings, particularly those from Northern Italy where prosciutto and arugula are often combined. The lemon zest is a modern touch that lifts and brightens the dish, making it uniquely memorable. It’s quick to prepare and always delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

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Zesty Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza

Michelle

Gourmet meets easy with this zesty prosciutto and arugula pizza recipe with lemon zest. Perfectly crisp and full of flavor!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 24 minutes mins

Course Main Dishes

Servings 4

Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling Pin
• Mixing bowl
• Zester
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 1 ball pizza dough
• ½ cup pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 6 8 thin slices prosciutto
• 1 cup baby arugula
• Zest of ½ lemon + lemon wedge for serving
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Shaved Parmesan optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
• Stretch Dough: On a floured surface, stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 10-12 inch round.
• Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spread sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top.
• Bake: Transfer to a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
• Add Toppings: Remove from oven. Drape prosciutto slices over hot pizza.
• Toss Arugula: Toss arugula with olive oil and lemon zest. Scatter over pizza.
• Finish & Serve: Add Parmesan shavings (if using) and a final squeeze of lemon. Slice and serve.

Notes

If using store-bought dough, let it sit out for 30 minutes before stretching to prevent tearing.

Keyword Zesty Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza

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