Homemade Marinated Mozzarella Balls
This Easy Homemade Marinated Mozzarella transforms fresh mozzarella balls into an irresistible appetizer with garlic, herbs, olive oil, and seasonings. Perfect for charcuterie boards, antipasto platters, holiday gatherings, and easy entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
- Marinate Time: 4 Hours
- Cook Time: 5 MINUTES
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, CONDIMENT
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 2 cups light olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, crushed
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine olive oil, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, red pepper flakes, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Warm gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and allow the oil mixture to cool completely.
- Place mozzarella balls into a clean glass jar or airtight container.
- Pour the cooled herb-infused oil over the mozzarella until completely submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Remove from refrigerator about 20 minutes before serving.
- Serve with crostini, crackers, fresh vegetables, or on a charcuterie board.
Notes
- Overnight marinating produces the best flavor.
- Keep mozzarella completely submerged in oil while storing.
- Olive oil may solidify when chilled; allow it to come closer to room temperature before serving.
- The leftover infused oil is delicious drizzled over bread, pasta, salads, or grilled vegetables.