Let’s get baking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare Sugar Mixture

Stir together 1 1/2 cups of the granulated sugar and the cornstarch in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites

Beat the egg whites, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt using a stand mixer (or hand mixer) with a whisk attachment at medium speed until frothy, 1 to 2 minutes. The mixture should be foamy and opaque.

Step 3: Gradually Add Sugar

Increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Gradually add the sugar and cornstarch mixture, a few tablespoons at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form, 6 to 8 minutes. The meringue should be thick, shiny, and hold its shape.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat the oven to 225°F (107°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Shape Pavlova

Spoon the egg white mixture onto the center of the prepared baking sheet.

Spread and flatten the mixture using the back of a large spoon or a rubber spatula into a 10-inch circle, creating an even layer. Create a slight indentation in the center of the circle to hold the whipped cream and strawberries later.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the pavlova until crisp, about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The outside should be dry and crisp, and the inside should still be slightly soft and marshmallowy.

Step 7: Cool

Turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely on the pan inside the oven, with the door closed, for about 2 hours. This slow cooling process helps to prevent the pavlova from cracking.

Step 8: Macerate Strawberries

While the pavlova is baking and cooling, prepare the strawberries. Stir together the halved or quartered strawberries, 2 tablespoons of the remaining granulated sugar, and the lemon zest in a medium bowl. Set aside to allow the strawberries to release their juices and become slightly softened.

Step 9: Make Whipped Cream

Beat the heavy whipping cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar at medium speed using a stand mixer or hand mixer until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.

Step 10: Combine Whipped Cream and Yogurt

Gently fold in the vanilla yogurt until just combined.

Step 11: Assemble Pavlova

Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the cooled pavlova, filling the indentation in the center.

Top with the desired amount of macerated strawberries.

Serve immediately. Enjoy this beautiful and delicious Strawberry Pavlova!