Marinated Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini in Olive Oil and Herbs)

Name: Marinated Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini in Olive Oil and Herbs)
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried basil (or Italian seasoning); Large pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Zest of ½ lemon (optional); 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional); Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Marinated mozzarella balls—made with fresh mozzarella balls (also known as bocconcini)—are infused with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. This easy appetizer is perfect for antipasto platters, salad toppers, or a quick Mediterranean-style snack.

Close-up side view of a jar of mozzarella balls marinating in olive oil, with lemon peel and basil nearby.

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Why We Love These Marinated Mozzarella Balls
Want more recipes like this?
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls
Chef’s Tips for the Best Flavor
Variations & Substitutions
Serving Suggestions
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
FAQ's
More Italian Recipes
Marinated Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini in Olive Oil and Herbs)

Why We Love These Marinated Mozzarella Balls

We’ve tested this recipe in our kitchen and love how easy it is to make ahead. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these creamy bocconcini balls soak up tons of flavor and look beautiful served on a cheese and charcuterie board. The word “bocconcini” comes from Italian, meaning “small mouthful”—and these little mozzarella pearls truly are the perfect bite. Learn more about bocconcini on Cheese.com

Whether you're entertaining or just want something delicious in the fridge for snacking or adding to salads, these are a go-to. Plus, we've added step-by-step photos to guide you every step of the way!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe brings together Mediterranean flavors and creamy mozzarella in the easiest way—simple ingredients, big flavor.

Flat lay of ingredients for marinated mozzarella balls, including bocconcini, olive oil, herbs, garlic, and lemon.

Fresh mini mozzarella balls (also called bocconcini or mozzarella pearls) – Soft, creamy, and bite-sized; they soak up the herb and oil marinade beautifully.
Extra virgin olive oil – Acts as the base of the marinade and adds richness and fruity flavor.
Garlic – Adds a punch of savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Dried oregano and dried basil (or Italian seasoning) – Bring a classic Mediterranean herb profile to the marinade.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat, if you like a little kick.
Lemon zest – Adds brightness and balance to the richness of the oil and cheese.
Fresh parsley or basil (optional) – Finishing herbs that add a pop of freshness and color.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

See the recipe card below for exact quantities.

How to Make Marinated Mozzarella Balls

Tested in our kitchen and loved by our readers—this recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor.

Mixing bowl with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and herbs for marinating mozzarella.

Bocconcini coated in herbs and spices inside a mixing bowl, ready for marinating.

Drain & pat dry the mozzarella balls - This step is essential, it helps the marinade cling to the cheese.
Make the marinade - In a bowl or glass jar, combine the olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, and chili flakes (if using).
Add the mozzarella balls - Gently toss until coated. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Marinate - Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors—or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Serve and Enjoy! Use a slotted spoon to lift out the cheese. Enjoy it on its own, in salads, or as part of an antipasto or grazing board.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Flavor

Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil you can find – it's the base of the marinade and adds rich flavor. Learn how to choose the best olive oil.
Let it sit longer – marinating overnight deepens the flavor.
Serve at room temperature for the best texture and taste.
Serving a crowd? You can easily double (or triple) the recipe and mix in a second herb if you want.

Variations & Substitutions

Try feta or goat cheese cubes instead of mozzarella.
Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or olives to the mix.
Use thyme, rosemary, oregano or chives instead of basil and parsley for different herb profiles.

Glass jar of marinated mozzarella balls with three skewered pieces in front, garnished with herbs and citrus zest.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many delicious ways to enjoy these marinated mozzarella balls—they’re incredibly versatile and right at home in everything from elegant platters to everyday salads

Add to an antipasto platter – Nestle them among cured meats, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers for an easy, impressive spread.
Build a caprese-inspired salad – Toss with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, or try them in our Caprese Skewers and Caprese Chicken for a fun twist on the classic combo.
Upgrade your salad game – These little flavor bombs are amazing in Mediterranean grain salads, pasta salads, or even tossed with arugula, cucumber, and red onion for a light lunch.
Serve with toasted baguette or crusty bread – Scoop them up with bread to soak up every last drop of the herby olive oil.
Pair with grilled vegetables – Add them to a veggie platter with zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Add to lunchboxes or picnic baskets – They travel well and make a great savory snack on the go.
Holiday appetizer boards or dinner parties – These make-ahead bites are a lifesaver for entertaining—just pull them from the fridge and you’re ready to go. Perfect for charcuterie boards or cheese platters.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead Instructions

These marinated mozzarella balls are perfect for prepping ahead of time. In fact, letting them sit overnight gives the garlic, lemon zest and herbs even more time to infuse the cheese with flavor. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge.

How to Store Marinated Mozzarella Balls

Transfer the marinated mozzarella (along with the oil and herbs) to a clean jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure the mozzarella stays mostly submerged in the oil to maintain freshness.

Serving Tip

Let the mozzarella pearls come to room temperature before serving—this softens the cheese and brings out the full flavor of the marinade.

Marinated Mozzarella Balls are Not Freezer Friendly

Freezing is not recommended. The texture of fresh mozzarella changes once frozen and defrosted, becoming rubbery or grainy.

FAQ's

Q : Are marinated mozzarella balls gluten free?

A : Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just check your spice labels to be sure.

Q : Can I marinate mozzarella balls in Italian dressing?

A : You can, but a homemade olive oil and herb marinade offers better flavor and control.

Q : Can I use larger mozzarella balls instead of pearls?

A : Absolutely—just cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Q : How long can I keep marinated mozzarella balls in the fridge?

A : They keep well for 2–3 days in an airtight container or glass jar.

Q : What’s the difference between bocconcini and mozzarella pearls?

A : Bocconcini are slightly larger and softer; mozzarella pearls are smaller and firmer—both work perfectly here.

Q : Can you freeze marinated mozzarella balls?

A : No—freezing will change the texture of the cheese.

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Bright overhead shot of a jar of marinated bocconcini on a navy plate, surrounded by lemon peel and seasoning.

These marinated mozzarella balls are a delicious, no-fuss way to add flavor and flair to your appetizers. Whether you're making a snack board or prepping for an Italian dinner party, they’re always a hit.

We’d love to hear how you served your marinated mozzarella balls! Leave a comment and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!