Come in and elevate your appetizer game with my Marinated Mozzarella Balls recipe! These delightful bites offer a unique fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors, perfect for easy entertaining or easy snacking dish. Dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe and make your appetizer experience unforgettable!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
I love my Marinated Mozzarella Balls recipe because it effortlessly combines the flavors of an Italian Caprese salad with a hint of Japanese influence, reminiscent of my Tomato Basil Mozzarella Bites and Japanese Style Avocado dish! Using mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, olive oil, and a touch of soy sauce, I craft a unique fusion side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
But what makes this dish truly special is the homemade marinade, inspired by my mother’s Caprese salad, infusing the mozzarella pearls with Japanese flavors for a delightful twist!
And the best part? It’s incredibly hassle-free to make – simply combine all the ingredients in a jar and enjoy right away, no marinating time needed! Perfect as an appetizer, it offers tender, creamy mozzarella pearls with hints of garlic, black pepper, and a touch of soy sauce. This recipe is ideal for anyone seeking an easy, protein-based appetizer side dish that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Mozzarella Pearls – fresh mozzarella balls are packed in a jar or tub of water. Can be found in the fresh refrigerated cheese and deli section in grocery stores.
- Olive Oil – extra virgin olive oil or olive oil of choice.
- Soy Sauce – low-sodium Soy Sauce preferred. Can also use tamari for gluten-free.
- Salt –Â sea salt preferred.
- Black Pepper – ground.
- Basil – freshly chopped basil.
- Garlic – sliced fresh garlic cloves.
Additional Add Ins
Consider incorporating Red Peppers, Red Pepper Flakes, or Fresh Parsley into the mix for added flavor and a spicy kick. These ingredients will elevate the dish, providing a vibrant and refreshing twist that enhances its overall taste.
Directions
Step 1 To make marinated mozzarella pearls, simply combine olive oil, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, sliced garlic, chopped basil, and mozzarella pearls in a mixing bowl, airtight container, or mason jar. Cover and stir occasionally.
💡 Serving Pro Tip
Serve the dish Immediately after mixing at Room Temperature.
Recipe Variations
For a simple twist on this recipe, try making my mother’s inspired Tomato Basil Mozzarella Bites using fresh sliced mozzarella instead of using mozzarella pearls topped with sliced tomatoes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute basil with other herbs?
Yes, you can substitute basil with Italian parsley in this recipe. It adds a fresh and slightly different flavor profile but pairs well with the other ingredients.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can definitely make the marinade in advance! Prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to use it, bring the marinade back to room temperature, give it a good mix as settling may occur, and then add in the mozzarella pearls.
Storage Tips
This recipe is best enjoyed promptly after preparation, but if you find yourself with extras, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply transfer the leftovers to an airtight container before refrigerating to maintain freshness and flavor.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Ground Beef & Mushroom Endive
- Prosciutto Radish Sprouts Wrap
- Japanese Deviled Eggs
- Garlic Truffle Edamame
Watch How To Make It
Marinated Mozzarella Balls
Ingredients
- 8 oz Mozzarella 2.5g per Pearl
- 1 Cup Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1/8 tsp Black Pepper
- 2-3 Leaves Fresh Basil
- 2 Cloves Garlic
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, salt and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Chop basil leaves into squares and place into the small mixing bowl.
- Finely slice garlic and add into the small mixing bowl.
- Drain water from the mozzarella pearl tub and add mozzarella pearls into the small mixing bowl. Mix well, saran wrap and store in fridge until ready to consume. Note - best consumed within 3 days.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving
I’ve actually never seen anything like this before. I’m going to have to try these. I love trying new foods. ?
Hey Michelle – For sure! It’s a fusion creation and the best part of fusion is always creating something new!