Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Herbs and Garlic

These marinated mozzarella balls are one of the simplest and most flavorful appetizers you can make. Small mozzarella balls are soaked in extra-virgin olive oil with fresh herbs, garlic and seasonings to create a crowd-pleasing snack your guests will reach for first.

Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Herbs and Olive oil

Marinated cheeses are often underrated, but they disappear quickly at gatherings for good reason. Serve these mozzarella bites with toothpicks for easy snacking or add a bowl to a charcuterie spread. They pair especially well with pizza, lasagna or any Italian-style dinner, and they’re naturally low-carb.

Ingredient Notes for Marinated Mozzarella Balls

MOZZARELLA BALLS: Look for small mozzarella balls (sometimes labeled “mozzarella pearls”) in most grocery stores. You can also cut larger fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.

EVOO: Use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil — it’s a key flavor in this simple recipe.

RED WINE VINEGAR: Adds brightness and depth. Champagne or balsamic vinegar can be used as alternatives if you prefer.

GARLIC: Two cloves, minced. Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

HERBS: Fresh herbs are recommended. Use about 6 tablespoons total: roughly 3 tablespoons fresh basil, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or substitute rosemary, dill or chives). If you use dried herbs, reduce the quantity.

RED PEPPER FLAKES: Add a gentle heat; adjust the amount to taste.

SALT & PEPPER: Start with 1/2 teaspoon of each and adjust to your preference.

herb marinated mozzarella balls with olive oil

Make in Advance

These marinated mozzarella balls are ideal for preparing ahead. Make them a day or two in advance so the flavors can meld — they’re often tastier the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Note: olive oil may solidify when chilled; remove the container about 20 minutes before serving and stir to loosen the oil.

Feel free to customize the marinade to your taste. Here are a few add-ins to try:

Sun-dried tomatoes
Diced olives
Hot sauce
Lemon zest
Flavored olive oils

This appetizer works well for casual weeknight meals or larger gatherings. Below is the recipe with measurements and simple instructions.

Marinated Mozzarella Balls

Author:
Courtney

An easy no-bake appetizer packed with flavor, these marinated mozzarella balls are mixed with olive oil and lots of fresh herbs.

5 from 1 vote

Print
Rate Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time
15 mins

Total Time
15 mins

Course
Appetizer

Cuisine
American

Servings
10 servings

Calories
260 kcal

Ingredients

16 ounces mozzarella balls (or “mozzarella pearls”)
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
Add the drained mozzarella balls and gently stir until they are evenly coated in the marinade.
Transfer the marinated cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour or until ready to serve. Remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before serving and stir to re-emulsify the oil if it has solidified. Enjoy within 7 days.

Keyword
marinated mozzarella balls

Calories: 260kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 26g

Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!