Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella Recipe

Introduction

Is it possible that the secret to the most flavorful mozzarella doesn’t involve cooking at all, but rather a slow, patient bath? The answer lies in the artful infusion of this classic cheese, and our recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella proves that the most vibrant flavors come from marination, not just the initial ingredients.

This Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella transforms simple fresh mozzarella balls into a stunning antipasto or salad topper. The sweet, smoky notes from the peppers, combined with garlic and fresh herbs, create an oil-based marinade that permeates the cheese over several hours.

Perfect for entertaining or elevating a weeknight meal, this make-ahead dish is a testament to how a little patience can yield spectacular, gourmet results with minimal effort. It’s a foolproof way to impress guests and add a burst of color and flavor to your table.

Ingredients

This Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella recipe combines creamy, mild cheese with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted peppers and a vibrant, herbaceous marinade.

• 8 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped basil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped oregano
• 2 teaspoons thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 heaping tablespoons diced roasted red peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, as it uses a simplified marinating process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Roasted Red Peppers

If using fresh peppers, roast them over an open flame or under a broiler until the skins are blackened and blistered. Immediately transfer the charred peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap; the steam will help loosen the skins.

Once cool enough to handle, peel off the blackened skin, remove the seeds and stems, and slice the flesh into thin strips. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help the marinade cling better.

Step 2 — Combine the Marinade Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together high-quality extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir in chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a fragrant base.

Add the prepared roasted red pepper strips to the marinade mixture. For the best flavor, let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to begin melding together before adding the cheese.

Step 3 — Prepare the Mozzarella

Drain one pound of fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini work well) and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for the mozzarella to properly absorb the marinade.

If using a large mozzarella ball, cut it into uniform, bite-sized pieces to maximize the surface area exposed to the flavorful marinade.

Step 4 — Marinate the Cheese

Gently combine the dried mozzarella balls with the red pepper and herb marinade in a large jar or an airtight container. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated by stirring carefully with a spoon.

Press down gently to submerge the cheese in the oil. Seal the container tightly to prevent air exposure, which can affect the texture and flavor.

Step 5 — Refrigerate to Infuse Flavor

Place the container of Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight marinating is ideal for a more profound flavor infusion.

During this time, the olive oil will firm up slightly. The mozzarella is ready when it has taken on the vibrant color and herbaceous aroma of the marinade.

Step 6 — Serve and Enjoy

Remove the marinated mozzarella from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the olive oil to return to a liquid state and the flavors to bloom at room temperature.

Serve this Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella with crusty bread, as part of an antipasto platter, or over a fresh green salad. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fat	14g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Burrata for Mozzarella — A creamier, richer alternative that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and smoky roasted red pepper marinade.
• Halloumi for Mozzarella — A firmer, saltier cheese that holds its shape well and can be grilled for a delicious, savory twist.
• Chickpeas for Mozzarella — A fantastic plant-based, high-protein option that soaks up the marinade flavors beautifully for a lower-carb alternative.
• Marinated Tofu for Mozzarella — A versatile, dairy-free protein that provides a neutral canvas to absorb the robust flavors of the roasted red pepper marinade.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts for Mozzarella — A flavorful, low-carb, and gluten-free swap that adds a tangy, briny element to the dish.
• Fresh Bocconcini for Larger Mozzarella Balls — Smaller, bite-sized mozzarella balls that offer the same great taste with better portion control.
• Low-Sodium Feta for Mozzarella — A crumbly, tangy cheese that provides a different flavor profile while significantly reducing the sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

• Create an elegant antipasto platter by pairing this Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella with cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and a selection of olives.
• For a simple yet impressive appetizer, skewer the marinated mozzarella balls with fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes.
• Elevate your sandwich game by adding slices of this flavorful cheese to a classic Italian sub or a grilled panini.
• Serve it as a vibrant topping for crostini or bruschetta, perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Incorporate the Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella into a fresh summer salad with mixed greens, a light vinaigrette, and grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Use it as a gourmet pizza topping after the pizza has baked for a burst of fresh, creamy flavor.

This versatile Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella is a fantastic make-ahead option that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday spreads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using low-moisture, pre-shredded mozzarella. Fix: Always start with fresh, high-quality mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) for the best creamy texture that absorbs the marinade.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to pat the mozzarella dry. Fix: Gently blot the cheese with paper towels to remove excess water, which helps the flavorful roasted red pepper oil cling better.
• Mistake: Over-blending the roasted red peppers into a completely smooth puree. Fix: Pulse the peppers to create a slightly chunky mixture for a more interesting texture and visual appeal in the final dish.
• Mistake: Not using enough high-quality olive oil. Fix: Ensure the mozzarella is fully submerged in a generous amount of good extra virgin olive oil to properly infuse and preserve the cheese.
• Mistake: Marinating for too short a time. Fix: Let the Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, for the flavors to fully develop.
• Mistake: Adding fresh herbs like basil too early. Fix: Stir in delicate herbs just before serving to keep them vibrant and prevent them from turning brown and slimy in the oil.
• Mistake: Using jarred roasted peppers without rinsing them. Fix: Always rinse and pat dry jarred peppers to remove the briny, sometimes metallic-tasting liquid, ensuring a cleaner pepper flavor.
• Mistake: Storing the marinated mozzarella at room temperature. Fix: Keep it refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for food safety and optimal freshness.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the marinade. Fix: Taste the oil mixture before adding the cheese and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings aggressively, as the mozzarella itself is mild.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The oil may solidify when chilled; this is normal.
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this marinated mozzarella, as the texture of the cheese can become grainy and the marinade may separate upon thawing.
• Reheat: This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. If you have incorporated it into a warm dish, gently warm it just until the cheese begins to soften, being careful not to overheat it as the mozzarella can melt and become oily.

Always ensure your Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella is stored at or below 40°F (4°C) for safety. Discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Conclusion

We hope you love making this vibrant Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella as much as we do. It’s a simple, flavor-packed appetizer perfect for any occasion. If you’re a fan of fresh mozzarella, you might also enjoy our Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato Grilled Cheese Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Roasted Red Peppers

Print Recipe

Zesty marinated mozzarella balls flavored with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and roasted red peppers, perfect as an appetizer or snack.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Appetizer
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped basil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped oregano
• 2 teaspoons thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 heaping tablespoons diced roasted red peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Drain mozzarella balls and place in a medium-large bowl.
2. In a smaller bowl, combine chopped parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, diced roasted red peppers, and pressed garlic.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the herb mixture and stir until well blended.
4. Pour the marinade over the mozzarella balls and gently toss to coat thoroughly.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, preferably 24 hours, to marinate.
6. Before serving, allow the mozzarella balls to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
7. Serve with some of the marinade drizzled over and toothpicks or small forks for easy picking.

Notes

Marinate the mozzarella balls for at least a few hours to allow flavors to meld. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette, or alongside salami and olives for a complete appetizer.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

FAQs

How long should the mozzarella marinate?

For the best flavor, let the mozzarella marinate for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator. Overnight is even better, as it allows the cheese to fully absorb the rich, smoky flavors of the Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella.

Can I use fresh mozzarella balls?

Yes, small fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini) work perfectly for this recipe. Their soft texture absorbs the marinade beautifully, making them ideal for this Roasted Red Pepper Marinated Mozzarella.

How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The olive oil in the marinade may solidify when cold, so let the dish sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving again.