Herb-Infused Marinated Mozzarella Bites
Delight in these herb-infused mozzarella cubes, perfectly marinated to enhance each savory note. Ideal for making ahead, these cubes develop a richer taste the longer they rest. Substituting roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes provides an exciting twist. Serve them alongside crusty baguette slices, fresh tomatoes, or toss them atop a crisp salad. This versatile dish can even complement a cheese platter for your next gathering. Note: Preparation time does not include marination.
16
Servings
213
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mozzarella cheese
1 lb (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Roasted red peppers
7 ounces (drained and cut into bite-sized pieces)
Fresh thyme sprigs
6 (whole)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Olive oil
1 1/4 cups (none)
Fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons (minced)
Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons (none)
Crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes.
2
In a clean, quart-sized jar with a tight-fitting lid, layer a third of the mozzarella cubes, followed by a portion of the roasted red peppers, fresh thyme, and minced garlic. Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used up, creating three layers.
3
In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the olive oil, finely minced rosemary, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure the herbs and spices are evenly distributed.
4
Carefully pour the oil and herb mixture into the jar over the layered ingredients, making sure all contents are submerged.
5
Seal the jar tightly and invert it to ensure the oil coats everything. Refrigerate the jar overnight, turning it several times to allow the flavors to meld.
6
For optimal flavor, store the marinated mozzarella in the refrigerator for a few days before serving. Ensure to consume within 1 month.
Nutrition Information
19g
Fat
3g
Carbs
8g
Protein
0.4g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Marinated Mozzarella Bites?
They are savory mozzarella cheese cubes marinated in an oil and herb mixture, designed to enhance flavor over time.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 16 servings.
What is the recommended size for the mozzarella cubes?
The mozzarella should be cut into 1-inch cubes.
What type of jar should be used for marinating?
A clean, quart-sized jar with a tight-fitting lid is recommended.
How should the ingredients be layered in the jar?
Layer a third of the mozzarella, followed by roasted red peppers, fresh thyme, and minced garlic, repeating this process for three layers.
What ingredients make up the oil marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, finely minced rosemary, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
How long should the mozzarella marinate before serving?
The bites should be refrigerated overnight at a minimum, though storing them for a few days provides optimal flavor.
Does the preparation time include the marination period?
No, the preparation time listed does not include the time required for marination.
How should the jar be handled during the refrigeration process?
The jar should be sealed tightly, inverted initially, and turned several times while refrigerating to ensure even flavor distribution.
What is the shelf life of these marinated mozzarella bites?
The bites should be consumed within 1 month when stored in the refrigerator.
Can I substitute the roasted red peppers?
Yes, sun-dried tomatoes are suggested as an exciting alternative to roasted red peppers.
What are some serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve them with crusty baguette slices, fresh tomatoes, on a crisp salad, or as part of a cheese platter.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 213 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 19g of fat.
How much protein is in a serving?
There are 8g of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 3g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
Yes, there is approximately 0.4g of fiber per serving.
What kind of oil is used for the marinade?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 cups of olive oil.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
How many thyme sprigs should be used?
The recipe calls for 6 fresh thyme sprigs.
What seasonings are included in the oil mixture?
Finely minced rosemary, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes are mixed with the oil.
How much mozzarella cheese is required?
You will need 1 lb of mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for make-ahead preparation?
Yes, it is ideal for making ahead as the flavors develop and become richer the longer they rest.
What amount of roasted red peppers is used?
The recipe uses 7 ounces of roasted red peppers, drained and cut into pieces.
How much rosemary is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of minced fresh rosemary.
How much Italian seasoning is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning.
How much red pepper flakes should I add?
Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
What is the culinary category for this dish?
It is primarily served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a Mediterranean-style lunch.
Does the cheese need to be submerged in oil?
Yes, ensure all contents in the jar are completely submerged in the oil and herb mixture.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with simple layering and mixing steps.