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    Home » Recipes » Sides

    Make the Best Marinated Mozzarella Balls with This Delicious Recipe

    By: Chantal Kirkland · Updated: 26 Jul, '23 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    Overhead view of cheese ball appetizer with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls
    Closeup of bowl of cheese balls with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls
    Fork holding a ball of marinated mozzarella
    Bowl of marinated mozzarella balls
    Photo collage of homemade mozzarella ball appetizer with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls

    Do you love cheese? Who doesn't, right? And if you're a fan of mozzarella in particular, then you're going to love this recipe for marinated mozzarella balls.

    These little guys are delicious and perfect for parties or gatherings with friends. They're also really easy to make, so follow along with as I show you how it's done!

    Photo collage of homemade mozzarella ball appetizer with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls

    Make the Best Marinated Mozzarella Balls with This Delicious Recipe

    Marinated mozzarella balls are the perfect addition to any appetizer, side dish, or charcuterie board. With their delicious taste and easy preparation, these little bites of heaven will be sure to please everyone at your next gathering.

    Whether you're hosting a dinner party or tailgating with friends, this simple recipe is guaranteed to be a hit! Serve them as an hors d'oeuvre before dinner or alongside your favorite salads and sandwiches for lunch.

    The possibilities are endless when it comes to marinated mozzarella balls - so don't wait another minute - start making up some tasty cheese-treats!

    Fork holding a ball of marinated mozzarella

    What You Need To Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls

    For the mozzarella balls:

    • 1 mozzarella piece
    • Italian dressing

    For the Italian dressing:

    • ¾ cup olive oil
    • ¼ cup wine vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh)
    • ½  teaspoon onion powder (optional)
    • 1 teaspoon dry basil
    • 1 teaspoon dry oregano
    • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • Pinch of salt and black pepper
    Ingredients necessary to make marinated mozzarella balls

    How to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls

    First make the dressing.

    Place all the ingredients for the dressing in a jar with lead. Close the lid and shake the jar so everything is going to incorporate well. Save the dressing for later.

    Seasoning being combined to make marinade for marinated mozzarella balls

    Make the mozzarella balls.

    In the bigger supermarkets there are small bite sized mozzarella balls you can use. But if you are not able to find them here is an easy way to make them at home.

    Buy a big mozzarella piece and cut it into small cubes or you can even shred it. Place the cubes or shreds in a big bowl and cover with really hot water (but not boiling). This will gently melt the mozzarella and you can shape it with a spoon to make it into small balls.

    How to make mozzarella balls

    When you have a ball ready, place it in another bowl with cold water to set. Repeat the procedure for the rest of the mozzarella. 

    Take the balls out of the cold water and place them in a clear bowl. Pour the Italian dressing over the mozzarella balls and let them sit in the dressing overnight.

    Marinade being poured over mozzarella balls to make marinated mozzarella balls

    Serve them with fresh tomatoes and basil.

    Tips to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls

    • Start with high-quality mozzarella cheese, such as fresh whole milk mozzarella.
    • Make sure to use cold water when making the marinade, as it helps to preserve the flavor of the cheese.
    • If your dressing seems chunky, use a food processor or blender to mix together all of your ingredients for a smoother consistency.
    • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in order to create unique flavors and aromas in your finished product!
    • When forming the balls, aim for an approximate diameter of 1 inch so that they absorb the marinade evenly.
    Closeup of bowl of cheese balls with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls

    FAQs About Homemade Mozzarella Balls

    What type of cheese should I use for mozzarella balls?

    I recommend using high-quality whole milk mozzarella for this recipe. It has a strong, creamy flavor that works perfectly with all the other ingredients in the marinade.

    Can you make Vegan Mozzarella Balls?

    Yes, you can! To make vegan mozzarella balls, just substitute your favorite vegan cheese for the traditional mozzarella and use a plant-based version of the marinade. It’s that simple!

    Are these mozzarella balls gluten-free?

    Yes, these mozzarella balls are gluten-free. Just make sure to use a gluten-free version of the marinade ingredients (everything I've listed in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check just to be sure). And you’re good to go!

    Overhead view of cheese ball appetizer with text which reads marinated mozzarella balls

    How do I store my marinated mozzarella balls?

    Once prepared, your mozzarella balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. I wouldn't recommend freezing them, as this can make fresh mozzarella crumbly and have a weird texture.

    Better to just eat them right away!

    Can I use different herbs and spices for my marinade?

    Absolutely! You can customize your marinated mozzarella balls with whatever herbs and spices you prefer. Try experimenting with different flavors to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

    How should I serve the marinated mozzarella balls?

    These delicious bites of cheese are perfect for any occasion! Serve them as an appetizer pre-dinner, alongside a charcuterie board, or even as a delicious snack. The possibilities are endless – so get creative and enjoy!

    How to make easy marinated mozzarella balls

    📋 Recipe

    Easy appetizer recipe to make marinated mozzarella balls

    Marinated Mozzarella Balls

    An absolute DREAM to make - and fabulous to enjoy, these marinated mozzarella balls are a fabulous appetizer or snack idea for any cheese-lover.
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes mins
    Resting Time 8 hours hrs
    Total Time 8 hours hrs 20 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Italian
    Servings 15 balls
    Calories 143 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    For the mozzarella balls:

    • 8 oz mozzarella

    For the Italian dressing:

    • ¾ cup olive oil
    • ¼ cup wine vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh
    • ½ teaspoon onion powder optional
    • 1 teaspoon dry basil
    • 1 teaspoon dry oregano
    • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • Pinch of salt and black pepper

    Instructions
     

    First make the dressing.

    • Place all the ingredients for the dressing in a jar with lead. Close the lid and shake the jar so everything is going to incorporate well. Save the dressing for later.
      ¾ cup olive oil, ¼ cup wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dry basil, 1 teaspoon dry oregano, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, Pinch of salt and black pepper

    Make the mozzarella balls.

    • In the bigger supermarkets there are small bite sized mozzarella balls you can use. But if you are not able to find them here is an easy way to make them at home.
      8 oz mozzarella
    • Buy a big mozzarella piece and cut it into small cubes or you can even shred it. Place the cubes or shreds in a big bowl and cover with really hot water (but not boiling). This will gently melt the mozzarella and you can shape it with a spoon to make it into small balls.
    • When you have a ball ready, place it in another bowl with cold water to set. Repeat the procedure for the rest of the mozzarella.
    • Take the balls out of the cold water and place them in a clear bowl. Pour the italian dressing over the mozzarella balls and let them sit in the dressing overnight.
    • Serve them with fresh tomatoes and basil.

    Video

    Nutrition

    Serving: 5ballsCalories: 143kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 97mgPotassium: 21mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 125IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 0.3mg
    Keyword marinated mozzarella balls, mozzarella, mozzarella balls
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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