Description
Creamy “Marinated Mozzarella Balls” dance with zesty artichokes and briny olives in this Mediterranean-inspired appetizer. Elegant flavors intertwine, promising a delightful starter you’ll savor with each refreshing bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) mini fresh mozzarella balls, ciliegine, drained
- 1 jar (12 ounces / 340 grams) marinated artichokes, drained
- 2 cups pitted & stuffed green olives, drained
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) olive oil
- 2–3 tablespoons red or white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon dried italian seasoning
- Fresh herbs of choice (thyme, rosemary, oregano, basil, parsley)
- Zest of 1 small lemon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, chopped fresh herbs, and lemon zest in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a vibrant and aromatic marinade.
- Incorporate artichoke hearts, mozzarella balls, and assorted olives into the liquid mixture, carefully folding to ensure each ingredient is thoroughly and evenly coated with the herbal dressing.
- Cover the marinating container and refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, transforming the ingredients into a harmonious appetizer.
- Before presenting, gently stir the marinated ensemble to redistribute the herbs and oils, ensuring a consistent flavor profile across all components.
- Transfer the marinated medley to a serving platter, enhancing the visual appeal with an additional drizzle of premium olive oil and a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios for a delightful textural contrast.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as an elegant antipasto, perfect for casual gatherings or sophisticated appetizer spreads.
Notes
- Customize the marinade by experimenting with different herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or basil for unique flavor profiles.
- Choose high-quality, fresh mozzarella balls for the best texture and taste in this appetizer.
- Let the mixture marinate longer (up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator to intensify the herb and garlic flavors.
- Serve at room temperature to enhance the mozzarella’s creamy texture and allow the herbs to release their full aroma.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg