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Marinated Mozzarella Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 61 reviews
  • Author: Villerius
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4 to 6
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

These marinated mozzarella balls are a flavorful and easy appetizer featuring fresh ciliegine mozzarella soaked in a zesty olive oil blend infused with lemon, herbs, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for entertaining, they can be prepared ahead and served chilled with crusty bread or as part of an antipasto platter.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and/or basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, grated
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ⅔ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Mozzarella

  • 8 ounces ciliegine fresh mozzarella cheese balls, drained and patted dry

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium jar, combine the chopped fresh parsley and/or basil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and ⅓ cup of the extra-virgin olive oil. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
  2. Add the Mozzarella: Place the drained and patted dry ciliegine mozzarella balls into the jar with the marinade.
  3. Cover with Olive Oil: Pour the remaining ⅓ cup of olive oil over the mozzarella balls, adding a little more if necessary to ensure that the cheese is fully submerged in the marinade.
  4. Refrigerate: Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to infuse into the mozzarella. This step is essential for developing the taste.
  5. Serve and Store: Serve the marinated mozzarella chilled as an appetizer or part of a cheese board. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, properly covered, for up to five days.

Notes

  • You can adjust the herbs according to your preference, using more basil or parsley, or other herbs like oregano.
  • For a more intense flavor, marinate the mozzarella balls overnight.
  • Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of an antipasto platter.
  • Ensure mozzarella balls are dry before adding to the marinade to prevent dilution.
  • Use a jar with a tight-fitting lid for easy storage and marinating.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 2 ounces of marinated mozzarella per serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Find it online: https://evelynseats.com/marinated-mozzarella-balls-recipe/