Marinated Mozzarella: A Burst of Mediterranean Flavor

Nothing says “crowd-pleaser” like a plate of marinated mozzarella, bursting with the fresh flavors of basil, parsley, chives, and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. This easy-to-make appetizer recipe is the perfect blend of creaminess and herbaceous goodness, ready in just a few hours with minimal prep.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party, holiday gathering, or simply want a flavorful snack, this marinated mozzarella is sure to impress. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Marinated Mozzarella

To create a delightful marinated mozzarella that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound part-skim mozzarella cheese, cubed 🧀
  Choose fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture. Part-skim mozzarella strikes a balance between creaminess and lower fat content, making it ideal for marinating. When cubed, it allows the marinade to infuse every bite with flavor.
• 1/2 cup olive oil 🫒
  Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. Olive oil acts as the base of the marinade, enhancing the taste of the cheese and helping to carry the flavors of the herbs and spices.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced 🌱
  Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbal note and a pop of color to the dish. It has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped 🍅
  Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated burst of sweetness and umami. They contribute a chewy texture and a slightly tangy flavor, enriching the overall profile of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped 🌿
  Basil is a quintessential herb in Mediterranean cooking, known for its aromatic, sweet, and slightly peppery taste. Fresh basil enhances the dish with its distinctive flavor and aroma.
• 1 teaspoon fresh chives, minced 🌱
  Chives add a subtle onion-like flavor that brightens the marinade. Their delicate texture and vibrant green color enhance both the taste and visual appeal of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 🌶️
  These flakes introduce a touch of heat to the dish, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your preference. The heat from the red pepper flakes balances the creaminess of the cheese and the richness of the olive oil.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
  Garlic powder contributes a warm, savory flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic. It blends seamlessly into the marinade, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 🧂
  Kosher salt enhances all the flavors in the marinade. It’s essential for bringing out the taste of the ingredients, ensuring that each bite is seasoned perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Marinated Mozzarella

Creating marinated mozzarella is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions for a deliciously flavorful appetizer:

Prepare the Herb Mixture:

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, start by measuring and adding 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This will serve as the base of your marinade, infusing the mozzarella with rich flavors.
• Next, add 1 tablespoon of minced fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh basil, and 1 teaspoon of minced fresh chives to the bowl.
• Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
• Using a whisk or a fork, combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Whisk until the oil is well-blended with the herbs and spices, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

Add the Mozzarella:

1. Once the herb mixture is well combined, it’s time to introduce the cheese. Carefully add 1 pound of cubed part-skim mozzarella cheese to the bowl.
2. Gently fold the mozzarella cubes into the herb and oil mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure each piece of cheese is coated evenly with the marinade. Be gentle to avoid breaking the mozzarella cubes, aiming for a nice, even coating that enhances their flavor.

Refrigerate and Marinate:

1. After the mozzarella is well coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate the cheese.
2. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let it marinate for 1-2 hours. For optimal flavor, consider marinating for longer; up to 24 hours is great for a richer taste. If possible, stir the mixture occasionally to ensure all pieces of mozzarella are infused with the marinade, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

Serve and Enjoy:

1. After marinating, remove the mozzarella from the refrigerator. It’s now ready to be served!
2. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the marinated mozzarella cubes on a serving platter. You can add toothpicks for easy snacking, making it convenient for guests to enjoy.
3. Additionally, consider serving the marinated mozzarella alongside fresh bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. The leftover marinade can be drizzled over salads or used as a dip for bread, enhancing your meal with even more flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Mozzarella Recipe

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here’s what makes it such a hit:

• Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is easy to make, even on busy days.
• Flavorful: Each ingredient, from the sun-dried tomatoes to the crushed red pepper flakes, adds depth to the dish.
• Great for Entertaining: A unique and crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to share.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Marinated Mozzarella

To make this recipe truly shine, here are some expert tips:

• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh, part-skim mozzarella gives the best texture for marinating.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon.
• Experiment with Herbs: Substitute other fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for unique flavor variations.

Serving Suggestions for Marinated Mozzarella

Marinated mozzarella is perfect on its own, but here are some serving ideas:

• On a Charcuterie Board: Pair it with cured meats, olives, and crackers for an impressive spread.
• In a Salad: Add these marinated mozzarella cubes to salads for a burst of flavor.
• In Pasta: Toss them with warm pasta, and the marinade can double as a light dressing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	110
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	1g
Protein	7g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

• Yes, you can substitute other semi-soft cheeses like bocconcini or even feta for a different flavor profile.

2. How long can I store marinated mozzarella?

• It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

• Yes, though fresh herbs provide the best flavor. If using dried herbs, use about half the amount listed in the recipe.

4. Is it possible to use flavored olive oil?

• Absolutely! Garlic or basil-infused olive oils work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra depth.

5. What can I do with the leftover marinade?

• The leftover marinade is perfect for dipping bread or as a salad dressing base.

6. Can I make this recipe vegan?

• Swap mozzarella with a plant-based cheese to create a vegan-friendly version.

This marinated mozzarella recipe is a go-to for any occasion, blending creamy cheese with bold Mediterranean flavors for an unforgettable appetizer or side dish. With minimal effort and loads of flavor, this is sure to become a favorite on your table.