Homemade Marinated Mozzarella Balls

Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious Homemade Marinated Mozzarella Balls. This simple yet flavorful dish features fresh mozzarella balls marinated in a blend of olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and spices. Perfect for serving at parties, as a snack, or as a delightful addition to your salads and charcuterie boards, these marinated mozzarella balls are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

1 lb fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp dried oregano
Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Prepare the Mozzarella Balls:
- Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Make the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, sea salt, dried oregano, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Marinate the Mozzarella:
- Place the mozzarella balls in a clean, airtight jar or container.
- Pour the marinade over the mozzarella balls, making sure they are fully submerged in the oil mixture.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
- Before serving, let the marinated mozzarella balls sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the olive oil to liquefy.
- Serve the marinated mozzarella balls with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. They are also a great addition to salads or pasta dishes.

Tips:

Storage: Store the marinated mozzarella balls in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure they are always fully submerged in the oil to maintain freshness.
Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile. Basil, chives, or marjoram can be excellent additions.