Description
These zesty marinated mozzarella balls from Pioneer Woman deliver Mediterranean charm with tangy herbs and rich olive oil. Cheese lovers will savor each creamy, herb-infused bite that promises a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings and quick snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) mozzarella balls (ciliegine, pearls, or bocconcini)
Oils and Herbs:
- 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (use 1 tablespoon if using dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (use 1 teaspoon if using dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (use 1 teaspoon if using dried)
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Craft a harmonious herb-infused marinade by whisking together robust extra virgin olive oil, minced fresh garlic, finely chopped parsley, fragrant basil, aromatic thyme, spicy red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Carefully drain the fresh mozzarella balls, gently patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring optimal marinade absorption.
- Delicately transfer the mozzarella balls into the prepared herb mixture, using a soft spatula to ensure each cheese sphere is completely and evenly coated with the flavorful oil and herb blend.
- Allow the marinating process to develop at ambient room temperature for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, permitting the herbs and spices to permeate the mozzarella’s delicate surface.
- For extended storage, transfer the marinated mozzarella to a clean glass jar or airtight container, ensuring all cheese balls remain submerged in the herbed olive oil.
- When preparing in advance, refrigerate the marinated mozzarella for up to 5 days, remembering that the olive oil may solidify when chilled.
- Before serving, remove the mozzarella from the refrigerator 20 to 25 minutes in advance, allowing the olive oil to return to a liquid state and the cheese to reach a pleasant room temperature.
- Gently stir the mozzarella balls just before presenting, redistributing the herbs and ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor impact.
Notes
- Let the mozzarella marinate longer for deeper, richer flavors that completely transform the appetizer.
- Chilled mozzarella becomes more delicious when brought to room temperature, releasing its full aromatic potential.
- Gently stirring the marinated balls ensures each piece gets perfectly coated with herbs and olive oil.
- Dried herbs work as a convenient substitute, but use sparingly since they pack more concentrated flavor than fresh ones.
- Selecting high-quality, soft fresh mozzarella like ciliegine or bocconcini creates the most incredible taste and texture experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 279
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 186 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg