Description
Homemade marinated mozzarella balls blend Italian herbs and olive oil for a delightful appetizer. Mediterranean flavors shine through creamy cheese, inviting guests to savor each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese Ingredient:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained
Marinade Herbs and Spices:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley and/or basil, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Liquid and Oil Components:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2/3 cup (160 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a clean glass jar, combine fresh basil, rosemary, minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, salt, and cracked black pepper with fragrant olive oil, whisking until herbs are evenly distributed.
- Gently immerse soft mozzarella balls into the aromatic marinade, ensuring each sphere is completely coated with the herbed oil mixture.
- Seal the jar tightly and transfer to the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and penetrate the cheese for a minimum of 60 minutes before serving.
- Prior to presentation, let the marinated mozzarella rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften and enhance the herb-infused taste.
- Serve chilled or at ambient temperature as a delightful appetizer, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality mozzarella balls for the best flavor and texture.
- Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance the marinade’s richness and depth.
- Customize the herb blend with fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for a personalized touch.
- Let the mozzarella marinate overnight for more intense flavor absorption and a more developed taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Curing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 263
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 136 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 36 mg