Description
These Marinated Mozzarella Balls are a fresh and flavorful appetizer featuring ciliegine mozzarella soaked in a zesty blend of herbs, lemon, garlic, and olive oil. Perfectly marinated for at least an hour, they offer a bright, tangy, and slightly spicy bite that’s perfect for parties or a simple snack.
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, or enough to cover the mozzarella balls
Mozzarella
- 8 ounces ciliegine fresh mozzarella cheese balls, drained and patted dry
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium jar, thoroughly mix together 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. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to infuse flavors.
- Add the mozzarella: Place the drained and patted dry ciliegine mozzarella balls into the jar with the marinade, spreading them evenly to allow each ball to soak up the flavors.
- Cover with olive oil: Pour the remaining ⅓ cup of extra-virgin olive oil over the mozzarella balls, adding more if needed to fully cover them and ensure even marination.
- Marinate and chill: Cover the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld together. For best taste, allow marinating up to 5 days, keeping it properly chilled.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and pat dry the fresh mozzarella to prevent watering down the marinade.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- The marinated mozzarella should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 5 days for optimal freshness.
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor; you can mix parsley and basil or use one according to your preference.
- This recipe can be served as a snack, appetizer, or added to salads and antipasto platters.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1.5 ounces (about 4 mozzarella balls with marinade)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
