Description
Silky Italian mozzarella pearls swim in herby olive oil with Mediterranean charm. Fragrant rosemary, crushed red pepper, and garlic elevate these simple cheese bites that tempt your palate with rustic Italian elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella, drained
- ¾ cup (180 milliliters) Bertolli extra virgin olive oil
Fresh Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh oregano, finely chopped
Spices and Salt:
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) kosher salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare a spacious mixing vessel to combine fragrant olive oil with minced garlic, freshly chopped basil, delicate thyme leaves, robust oregano, zesty red pepper flakes, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Gently introduce whole mozzarella balls into the aromatic marinade, carefully rotating and coating each sphere to ensure complete flavor absorption.
- Allow the cheese to luxuriate in the herbal infusion, permitting the ingredients to meld and intensify their essence for a minimum of sixty minutes. Extended marinating time will amplify the depth and complexity of flavors.
- Transfer the infused mozzarella balls into a sealed glass container, preserving their marinated state within the cool confines of the refrigerator for optimal freshness and taste preservation.
- When ready to serve, remove the mozzarella from the refrigerator approximately fifteen minutes prior to consumption, enabling the olive oil to return to room temperature and enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Notes
- Marinate mozzarella balls in herb-infused olive oil for a burst of Mediterranean flavor that intensifies with time.
- Freshly chopped herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano create a vibrant, aromatic coating that transforms simple cheese into a gourmet appetizer.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat, perfectly balancing the creamy mozzarella’s mild taste.
- Ideal for meal prep, these marinated cheese balls can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a convenient party snack or quick appetizer.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delicious addition to charcuterie boards, salads, or as a standalone bite-sized treat.
- Experiment with additional herbs or spices to customize the marinade and create your unique flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 34 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg