You have to try these marinated mozzarella balls for a simple appetizer packed with flavor. The easy recipe is great to make for snacking, charcuterie boards, salads, or easy party bites.

A white bowl with round cheese balls in herb-infused oil, surrounded by small dishes of chopped herbs and chili flakes on a white surface.

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One of my favorite appetizers to make when I want something that looks impressive but takes very little effort is this marinated cheese recipe. I love how a few simple ingredients turn the fresh mozzarella balls into something so flavorful. I like to make them for snack boards, quick gatherings, or when I just want something savory to nibble on with my homemade Italian crusty bread.

This quick and easy appetizer takes minutes to make and pairs well with fruity bites like strawberry crostini, or a creamy BLT dip. When I put everything together on a platter, the combination of flavors and textures always disappears quickly. It makes a nice spread for smaller intimate gatherings with just a few people or for a larger gathering of friends.

Ingredients

A bowl of creamy liquid, a bowl of mozzarella balls, and small dishes of chopped herbs, salt, and red pepper flakes on a white surface with a red checkered cloth.

Fresh bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella cheese balls: These are creamy, mild, and tender, making them perfect for marinating.
Extra virgin olive oil: Oil helps carry and blend the flavors of the herbs and seasonings while coating the mozzarella.
Fresh chopped parsley: Parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and a bit of color that balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
Fresh rosemary leaves: Rosemary brings a fragrant, earthy flavor that gives the marinade a more aromatic and savory depth.
Red pepper flakes: These add a light touch of heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the cheese.
Kosher salt: Kosher salt helps bring out the natural flavors of the mozzarella and the herbs.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

A white bowl filled with small mozzarella balls in herb-infused oil, garnished with fresh parsley and rosemary; small bowls of herbs and spices are in the background.

Instructions

Mix olive oil, salt, red pepper flakes, parsley, and rosemary in a bowl to create the marinade. Add the drained mozzarella balls and gently stir until they are well coated. Cover and let the mozzarella sit for at least one hour so the flavors can soak in before serving.

Hint: The longer you let the mozzarella marinate, the more flavor it will absorb from the olive oil, herbs, and spices. I like to let it sit in the refrigerator for at least a few hours.

A spoon holds three mozzarella balls with herbs, above a bowl filled with more mozzarella balls and herbs in liquid.

Variations

Use different dry or fresh herbs: I like to change things up by swapping or adding herbs like fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to change the flavor profile. Dried herbs can also be used.
Add citrus: A little lemon juice or orange zest brightens the marinade flavor.
Skewer with cherry tomatoes: I have used this mozzarella ball recipe for making bite-sized caprese skewers.
Adjust the heat: My family likes things mild so I'll decrease the pepper flakes when I'm sharing with them.

Tips

Top tip: Pat the mozzarella dry before marinating. Removing excess moisture helps the olive oil and seasonings stick better, so the cheese absorbs more flavor.

Taste and adjust seasoning: After marinating, add a little more salt or red pepper flakes if needed to balance the flavors.
Stir gently before serving: A light stir redistributes the herbs and seasonings so each bite is flavorful.

White scalloped plate with three mozzarella balls on a wooden stick, garnished with parsley, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Some parsley and pepper flakes are scattered on the surface.

Storage

Store in the refrigerator in an air tight container. You can refrigerate for up to 5 days, and the flavor often becomes even better as the cheese continues to absorb the herbs and seasonings.

The olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled, which is completely normal. Before serving, simply let the mozzarella sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes so the oil softens and the flavors can fully develop again.

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Recipe

A bowl of mozzarella balls in olive oil with herbs, with a ladle scooping some out.

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Marinated Mozzarella Balls

Fresh mozzarella balls are coated in a simple blend of olive oil, herbs, and seasonings for a quick make-ahead appetizer. They pair well with crackers, bread, or a charcuterie board and work nicely for casual gatherings or small snacks.

Prep Time10

Marinate:1

Total Time1 10

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Italian

Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Servings (Adjustable): 5

Calories: 282kcal

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Ingredients

▢ 150 grams fresh mozzarella mini drained weight
▢ ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
▢ 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
▢ 1 to 2 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves stripped from stem
▢ ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
▢ ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt add more to taste

Instructions

In a medium bowl, pour extra virgin olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes.
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Add parsley and rosemary, then mix altogether.
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Slowly add each mozzarella mini and coat with the extra virgin olive oil mixture.
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Cover with a tight lid or transfer to an airtight container. Allow the mozzarella mini to marinate for at least 1 hour before using.
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Notes

I used Galbani Mozzarella Mini and the package indicated that one of the ingredients used is a vegetarian coagulant, making this recipe suitable for vegetarians.

Use newly bought fresh mozzarella mini and immediately use it for this marinated recipe. Fresh mozzarella mini doesn't last long, even with an unopened package.

After making this Marinated Mozzarella Balls recipe, consume in 3 to 5 days or after 24 hours of marinating for the best flavor.

If the unopened mozzarella mini package is puffed and the contents are slimy, toss immediately.

Use fresh parsley and rosemary without any wilted leaves.

Use quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Never use your hands when removing the mozzarella balls from the container, always use clean utensils to prevent faster spoilage.

Nutrition

Equipment

Measuring Spoons

Measuring Cup

Knife

Chopping board

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