Marinated Mozzarella

Marinated Mozzarella Recipe from Italy with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Marinated Mozzarella is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of creamy mozzarella cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs makes for a tasty and satisfying treat.

History

The origins of Marinated Mozzarella are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Italy, where mozzarella cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The practice of marinating cheese in oil and herbs is a traditional method of preserving cheese and enhancing its flavor.

Ingredients

3 (8 oz (227 g)) blocks of mozzarella cheese
1 (8.5 oz (241 g)) jar of sun-dried tomatoes, drained and halved
0.5 cup of olive oil
3 tbsp of finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of onion powder
0.5 tsp of dried oregano
0.5 tsp of dried italian seasonings
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of freshly ground pepper
garnish: flat-leaf parsley sprigs or fresh rosemary stems

How to prepare

Cut the block of cheese into 1-inch cubes.
Arrange the cheese cubes and tomato halves in an 8-inch baking dish.
Whisk together 0.5 cup of olive oil, chopped parsley, and the next 6 ingredients. Pour the mixture evenly over the cheese cubes.
Cover and chill for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
Transfer the mixture to a serving plate.
Garnish with fresh flat leaf parsley springs or spear tomato halves and cheese cubes with short rosemary stems, if desired.
Drizzle with marinade, if desired.

Variations

Add olives or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Use different herbs and spices in the marinade for a unique twist.
Try using different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use high-quality mozzarella cheese for the best results.

- Make sure to allow enough time for the cheese to marinate, as this will allow the flavors to fully develop.

- You can customize the marinade by adding your favorite herbs and spices.

- Serve the Marinated Mozzarella with crusty bread or crackers for a delicious appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Marinated Mozzarella with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a tasty appetizer or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Marinated Mozzarella is a simple dish that requires no cooking. Simply marinate the cheese and tomatoes in the herb-infused oil and chill before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes.

- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinated Mozzarella can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Marinated Mozzarella with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Marinated Mozzarella with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Marinated Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Marinated Mozzarella contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Marinated Mozzarella contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Marinated Mozzarella contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Marinated Mozzarella contains approximately 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Marinated Mozzarella is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Marinated Mozzarella contains dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Marinated Mozzarella is a delicious and nutritious dish that is high in protein and calcium. It is a great option for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Summary

Marinated Mozzarella is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. With its creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had invited a few friends over for a potluck dinner in my backyard. As I was planning the menu, I wanted to make something special, something that would impress my guests. That's when I remembered the Marinated Mozzarella recipe that my dear friend Maria had shared with me years ago.

Maria was a wonderful cook, and she loved to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Whenever she made this Marinated Mozzarella, it was always a hit at parties and gatherings. I had always wanted to try making it myself, but I never had the chance until that day.

I rummaged through my recipe box and finally found the small piece of paper where Maria had scribbled down the ingredients and instructions for the Marinated Mozzarella. As I read through the recipe, I could almost taste the tangy marinade and the creamy mozzarella cheese. I knew that this dish would be the perfect addition to my menu.

I quickly gathered all the ingredients - fresh mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and seasonings. I sliced the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and arranged them in a shallow dish. Then, I halved the cherry tomatoes and tore the basil leaves into smaller pieces.

In a small bowl, I mixed together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The aroma of the garlic and herbs filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I poured the marinade over the mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Then, I covered the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours.

As my friends arrived for the potluck dinner, the tantalizing scent of the Marinated Mozzarella wafted through the air. They all gathered around the table, eager to taste this new dish I had prepared. I served the Marinated Mozzarella on a platter, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

The first bite was pure bliss - the creamy mozzarella melted in my mouth, while the tangy marinade added a burst of flavor. My friends' eyes lit up with delight as they savored each bite, complimenting me on the delicious dish. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction knowing that I had successfully recreated Maria's recipe.

From that day on, the Marinated Mozzarella became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and even just for myself when I wanted a simple yet flavorful snack. Each time I made it, I would think of Maria and the fond memories we shared in the kitchen.

Years passed, and I continued to make the Marinated Mozzarella, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. Sometimes I would add sun-dried tomatoes or olives, other times I would sprinkle it with fresh herbs or a dash of lemon zest. But no matter how I changed it, the dish always brought back memories of that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe.

As I sit here now, writing down my story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing down this beloved recipe to the next generation. I hope that they will enjoy making the Marinated Mozzarella as much as I have, and that it will bring them joy and memories of our time together in the kitchen.

And so, the legacy of the Marinated Mozzarella lives on, a testament to the power of sharing recipes and creating moments to treasure with loved ones. The simple act of cooking can bring us closer together, weaving a tapestry of flavors and memories that will endure for years to come.