Marinated Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a bite-sized snack that’s bursting with flavor, Marinated Mozzarella is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, creamy mozzarella balls soaked in a rich blend of olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and zesty spices. This simple yet delicious appetizer is perfect for any gathering, whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner party or enjoying it as a special treat on a lazy afternoon. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll be hooked—it’s that good! The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, and you can adjust the marination to suit your taste. Get ready for a little mozzarella magic!

Why You’ll Love Marinated Mozzarella

Flavor-Packed: The mozzarella soaks up all the aromatic flavors from the herbs and spices, making each bite a burst of goodness.

Easy to Make: No cooking involved! Just a little marinating time, and you’ve got an amazing snack or appetizer ready to go.

Customizable: The marinade can be adjusted to your taste—add more garlic for a punch or throw in some chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Versatile: You can serve these as an appetizer, toss them in a salad, or even add them to sandwiches or pasta dishes for an extra burst of flavor.

Healthy: Mozzarella is a great source of protein and calcium, and paired with olive oil and fresh herbs, this snack is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

For the Marinated Mozzarella:

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) – The soft, creamy mozzarella is the star of this dish, perfect for soaking up the flavors.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – The base of the marinade, rich and smooth, to coat the cheese and bring out the flavors.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds that garlicky punch that works so well with mozzarella.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Brings a savory, aromatic quality to the dish.
• 1 tsp dried basil – For that fresh, herbaceous flavor that’s perfect with mozzarella.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat, adjust to your spice preference.
• 1/2 tsp salt – To balance all the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Adds a little zing and depth.
• 1-2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional) – For a slight tang and sweetness that complements the cheese.
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley) for garnish – These will add a fresh pop of flavor and color to the finished dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

For the Marinated Mozzarella:

1. Prepare the Mozzarella:
Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, add it to the mixture for a little extra tang.

3. Marinate:
Place the mozzarella balls in a glass jar or a small airtight container. Pour the marinade over the cheese, making sure the mozzarella is fully submerged. If needed, you can add a bit more olive oil to ensure everything is covered.

4. Let it Sit:
Seal the container or jar and place it in the refrigerator. Let the mozzarella marinate for at least 2 hours, but preferably 12 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley over the marinated mozzarella for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 150
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 230mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 9g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 2%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (or overnight)

How to Serve Marinated Mozzarella

As an Appetizer: Serve the marinated mozzarella with toothpicks or a small skewer for easy snacking.

In a Salad: Toss the mozzarella with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fresh and flavorful salad.

On a Cheese Board: Add the marinated mozzarella to a charcuterie or cheese board, along with some crackers, fruits, and nuts for an impressive spread.

With Bread: Serve it alongside some crusty bread or sliced baguette. You can even dip the bread in the marinade for extra flavor.

As a Topping: Add the marinated mozzarella to pasta dishes or sandwiches for a burst of creamy, herby goodness.

Additional Tips

Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add a bit more garlic to the marinade for an extra kick.

Herb Variations: You can use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more aromatic and vibrant flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely.

Make it Spicy: For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add in some finely chopped fresh chili peppers.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure the mozzarella remains covered in the marinade to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Use Flavored Oil: For added depth, you can use a flavored olive oil, such as garlic-infused or chili-infused olive oil, to elevate the flavor of your marinated mozzarella.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella for this recipe?
A1: It’s best to use fresh mozzarella balls for the best texture and flavor. Shredded mozzarella won’t absorb the marinade in the same way.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without balsamic vinegar?
A2: Yes! Balsamic vinegar is optional, but it adds a nice touch of tangy sweetness. You can leave it out if you prefer a more straightforward, herby flavor.

Q3: Can I use different herbs for marinating?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme, oregano, rosemary, or parsley. Fresh herbs work great too!

Q4: How long should I let the mozzarella marinate?
A4: For the best flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours, but letting it sit overnight will allow the flavors to really infuse the cheese.

Q5: Can I use mozzarella slices instead of balls?
A5: Yes! You can slice a block of mozzarella into cubes or rounds, just make sure they’re large enough to soak up the marinade.

Q6: How can I serve this at a party?
A6: Serve the marinated mozzarella on a platter with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables. You can also skewer them on toothpicks for easy snacking.

Q7: Can I freeze marinated mozzarella?
A7: Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the mozzarella. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after marinating in the fridge.

Q8: How spicy is this recipe?
A8: The level of spice depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. If you like it mild, use a small amount or omit them altogether.

Q9: Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?
A9: Definitely! You can add things like lemon zest, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even anchovies to the marinade for extra flavor.

Q10: How do I know if the mozzarella has marinated enough?
A10: When the mozzarella has absorbed the flavors from the marinade, it will taste richly seasoned. If you’re using smaller mozzarella balls, a couple of hours is enough for the flavor to seep in.

Conclusion

Marinated Mozzarella is a simple yet flavorful dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With its smooth, creamy texture and savory, herby marinade, it’s the perfect addition to any appetizer spread or salad. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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