Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together simplicity and elegance. Bite-sized mozzarella balls soaked in a flavorful marinade of olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and spices are irresistibly delicious. Fresh basil adds a touch of brightness that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
Whether I’m hosting a dinner party, preparing a picnic spread, or simply looking for an easy appetizer, this dish never fails to impress. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and looks stunning on the table. My family loves snacking on these, and they’ve become a staple for any gathering.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?
A: Yes, you can cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces if mozzarella balls aren’t available.
Q: How long should the mozzarella marinate?
A: For the best flavor, let the mozzarella marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
Q: Can I add other herbs to the marinade?
A: Absolutely! Fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley work beautifully in this recipe.
Q: What can I serve these mozzarella balls with?
A: Serve them with crusty bread, crackers, or alongside a charcuterie board. They also make a great topping for salads or pasta.
Q: How long will the marinated mozzarella keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
What You Need to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
How to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil
Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Balls
- Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Combine and Marinate
- Add the mozzarella balls to the bowl with the marinade, gently tossing to coat them evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Fresh Basil
- Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the marinated mozzarella balls with toothpicks or on a platter with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Marinated Mozzarella Balls
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh mozzarella and good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Customize the Flavor: Experiment with additional herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: The longer the mozzarella marinates, the better it tastes. Just add the basil right before serving for freshness.
- Presentation Matters: Serve in a shallow dish or on a charcuterie board for an elegant touch.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These were a hit at my dinner party! Everyone loved the bright flavors and creamy texture.” – Laura
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I added fresh oregano to the marinade, and it was amazing. This recipe is so versatile!” – Michael
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for my charcuterie board. The lemon zest and fresh basil made it so refreshing!” – Jessica
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made these for a picnic, and they were the first thing to disappear. So good!” – Brian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Simple to make and absolutely delicious. I’ll be making these again for sure!” – Rachel
Printable Recipe
Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil
Quick, easy, and delicious, these Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil are perfect for appetizers, charcuterie boards, or snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Balls
- Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Combine and Marinate
- Add the mozzarella balls to the bowl with the marinade, gently tossing to coat them evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Fresh Basil
- Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the marinated mozzarella balls with toothpicks or on a platter with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
Make Delicious Ice Cream in a Bag in Just 15 Minutes
If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
These Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Basil are an easy and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook. Tag me in your creations—I’d love to see how you serve them! Let’s inspire more people to enjoy flavorful, homemade dishes together.
