Marinated Mozzarella: 7 Best Ways to Unlock Epic Flavor
A delicious marinated mozzarella recipe infused with garlic, herbs, and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer, salad topping, or snack!
Equipment
- 1 Glass bowl or airtight container For marinating the mozzarella
- 1 Wooden Spoon To mix without damaging the cheese
- 2 set Measuring Cups/Spoons For accurate ingredient portions
- 1 Sharp knife For slicing fresh mozzarella
- 1 Serving platter For presentation
Ingredients
- 8 oz - Fresh mozzarella balls Bocconcini or ciliegine size
- ¼ cup - Extra virgin olive oil High quality for best flavor
- 1 tbsp - Balsamic vinegar Optional for extra tanginess
- 2 cloves - Garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor
- 1 tsp - Dried oregano For authentic Italian taste
- ½ tsp - Dried basil Complements the mozzarella
- ½ tsp - Crushed red pepper flakes Adds a mild kick
- ¼ tsp - Black pepper Freshly ground for best taste
- ¼ tsp - Slat To enhance flavors
- 1 tbsp - Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the fresh mozzarella balls to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly in the marinade.
- Transfer the marinated mozzarella into an airtight container or jar, ensuring the cheese is fully submerged in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for a deeper flavor).
- Before serving, let the mozzarella sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve as an appetizer, salad topping, or side dish.
Notes
-
Make-Ahead Tip: The longer the mozzarella marinates, the better the flavor. Overnight marination enhances the taste.
-
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
-
Serving Suggestions: Serve as an appetizer with toasted bread, add to salads, or pair with cured meats for a charcuterie board.
-
Variations: Try adding lemon zest, rosemary, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Use smoked mozzarella for a deeper taste.
-
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular mozzarella with a plant-based alternative and use extra olive oil for creaminess.
-
The Secret to Perfectly Marinated Mozzarella: The key to deep, rich flavor is high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs. Don’t rush the marination process—letting the cheese sit for at least 2 hours (or overnight) allows every bite to absorb the delicious flavors.
-
How to Elevate This Recipe: Serve your marinated mozzarella warm! Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, then slightly heat it in the olive oil for a few seconds—this enhances the creaminess and brings out the garlic and herbs.
-
Pairing Ideas for the Ultimate Experience: Enjoy it with crusty bread, roasted tomatoes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-quality dish. Want a wine pairing? Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir to complement the richness of the cheese.
-
Quick Fix for Last-Minute Guests: Short on time? Use pre-marinated mozzarella balls from the store and enhance them with fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. 15 minutes is all you need!