Garlic & Herb Mozzarella Balls

Everything about these garlic and herb mozzarella balls is quick and easy.  So that is the theme for today’s recipe.

You know those times, when you plan to have some friends over, and you want something delicious but low maintenance you can just set out for everyone to nosh on?  Marinated mozzarella balls are perfect for just those occasions.  No time at all to pull together.  Make them in advance and keep them in the fridge until you can set them on the table, either plain, or with some lovely crusty bread.  So simple!

The recommended mozzarella balls for this dish are the ones called ciliegine, so look for that on the packaging.  They are the size of cherries, which makes them a perfect balance for the coating of infused oil and herbs.  The lovely creamy texture of the fresh mozzarella, the brightness of fresh herbs, the velvety, garlic infused extra virgin olive oil.  This little appetizer is guaranteed to please everyone.

Making garlic & herb mozzarella balls

Just a few little chopped herbs.

And a bit of juice from this guy.

Mixed with a beautiful extra virgin olive oil.

I suggest you mix the oil and herbs first, then add salt a bit at a time for taste.  It will be easier to stir and adjust for salt this way, as opposed to mixing everything with the ciliegine and trying to stir and adjust for salt that way.

Pour the finished marinade over the mozzarella balls.  Stir to coat them all.

I like to store them in the refrigerator in a canning jar.  I shake the jar every so often make sure the top ones get coated every so often.

When ready to serve, you can pour the ciliegine and the marinade into a large dish and provide some toothpicks for serving, or just allow people to help themselves out of the jar.  I like to pair it with bread, which is a wonderful way to soak up the herb-infused oil off the plates.

It’s really amazing how much flavor mileage you get from something so simple and easy.  Creamy and fresh, with the tang of the lemon juice and a nice bite of garlic.  These guys just never seem to last long.  So, next time you need a quick and easy appetizer, this is a delicious option!

Garlic & Herb Mozzarella Balls

Lori

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 mins

Total Time 5 mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound 2 8-ounce containers of ciliegine mozzarella, well drained
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1/2 cup quality extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• Salt

Instructions

 

• Mix everything together but the mozzarella balls, adding the salt in stages and testing for taste until right.
• Then pour the oil marinade over the mozzarella balls.
• Serve right away or refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

You can serve this appetizer right away, but the flavor will be improved if allowed to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.