Description
This Marinated Mozzarella recipe features tender mozzarella balls soaked in a flavorful blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. It’s a versatile appetizer or addition to salads and charcuterie boards, offering a fresh, aromatic taste with optional additions like cherry tomatoes and olives for enhanced flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Mozzarella and Garnish
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes or black olives (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended and aromatic.
- Coat the Mozzarella: Add the fresh mozzarella balls to the marinade bowl. Gently toss or stir to ensure each ball is thoroughly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Combine and Add Optional Ingredients: Transfer the marinated mozzarella along with the marinade into an airtight container or jar. If desired, add cherry tomatoes or black olives to introduce additional flavor and color.
- Marinate: Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the mozzarella marinate for at least 1 hour to absorb the flavors; for best results, marinate overnight.
- Serve: When ready to serve, remove the container from the refrigerator. Garnish the marinated mozzarella with freshly chopped parsley. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or salad component.
- Optional Pairings: Consider serving this marinated mozzarella with crusty bread or incorporating it into salads and charcuterie boards to enhance your meal experience.
Notes
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor but at least 1 hour is sufficient for good taste.
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
- Optional cherry tomatoes or black olives add complementary flavors but can be omitted if preferred.
- Store leftover marinated mozzarella in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 oz (about 56g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: marinated mozzarella, bocconcini, appetizer, Italian cheese, easy appetizer, mozzarella salad, marinated cheese, party food
