Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives

This Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives recipe is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that combines creamy mozzarella, tangy artichokes, and briny olives, all marinated in a delightful blend of olive oil and herbs. It’s perfect for entertaining, served alongside crackers, bread, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time.

Ingredients

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine, small fresh mozzarella balls)
1 jar marinated artichoke hearts (about 6-8 ounces), drained and halved
1/2 cup mixed olives (green, Kalamata, or black, pitted)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Mozzarella balls: If using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Artichokes: Halve or quarter the marinated artichoke hearts.
Olives: Use any type of olive you prefer. If they are not pre-pitted, remove the pits and cut them into halves or thirds.

2. Make the Marinade:

In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake to mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, gently toss together the mozzarella balls, artichoke hearts, and olives. Pour the marinade over the mixture and toss again to coat everything evenly.

4. Marinate:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours or overnight. The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will meld together.

5. Serve:

Before serving, give the mixture a good toss. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve with crackers, crusty bread, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of the creamy mozzarella, briny olives, and tangy artichokes, all marinated in a herb-infused olive oil, creates a delightful medley of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish is a breeze to prepare. You can prep it ahead of time and let it marinate, making it an ideal appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Versatile: This recipe can be customized based on your preferences. Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor.
Healthy: It’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s packed with healthy fats from the olives and olive oil, making it a nutritious snack or appetizer.

Serving Suggestions:

As an Appetizer: Serve alongside bruschetta, hummus, or tzatziki for a light Mediterranean spread.
On a Charcuterie Board: Add this marinated mixture to your charcuterie board, along with meats, cheeses, and crackers for a balanced, flavorful snack.
With Salad: Toss it into a fresh green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for an added layer of flavor.

This Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives dish is the perfect blend of tangy, savory, and fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both satisfying and sophisticated, sure to be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy!