Description
This Marinated Mozzarella Balls (plant-based) recipe offers a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make snack bursting with herbs, spices, and tangy apple cider vinegar. Perfect as an appetizer or party platter addition, these marinated spheres bring vibrant and zesty flavors that can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (plant-based)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
Optional Variations
- Additional crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce (natural) for extra heat
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley instead of basil and oregano
- Smoked turkey bacon bits for smoky flavor boost
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a zesty citrus twist
- Finely chopped olives to create a Mediterranean vibe
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and fragrant. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base for the mozzarella (plant-based) balls to soak in.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Optional Ingredients: Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil and oregano. If using sun-dried tomatoes or smoked turkey bacon bits, fold them into the marinade now to add extra texture and depth.
- Combine Mozzarella Balls with Marinade: Gently add the mozzarella balls (plant-based) to the bowl, making sure each ball is fully coated with the marinade. Use a spoon to carefully turn them, ensuring even coverage of all mozzarella balls.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop and infuse into the mozzarella.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the marinated mozzarella balls chilled or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread, fresh veggies, or as part of an appetizer platter.
Notes
- Use fresh quality mozzarella balls (plant-based) for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Allow the mozzarella balls to marinate longer for deeper flavor. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar to control the acidity level according to your taste preference.
- For added texture, toss in chopped nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts.
- Store marinated mozzarella balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: marinated mozzarella balls, plant-based mozzarella, appetizer, snack, easy recipe, Mediterranean flavors, herb marinade