Description
Looking for an easy appetizer that’s packed with Mediterranean flavor and takes no time to prepare? These Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, briny olives, and tender artichokes are tossed in a zesty, herbed olive oil marinade that only gets better with time. Whether you’re planning a holiday spread, prepping a quick snack, or searching for party appetizers, dinner ideas, or food ideas to wow your guests — this easy recipe delivers flavor, color, and texture in every bite. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or part of your favorite dinner ideas.
Ingredients
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
1 cup artichoke hearts
1 cup mixed olives
0.5 cup cherry tomatoes
0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes
2 cloves garlic
0.25 cup fresh parsley
1 tbsp fresh rosemary
0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Salt to taste
0.33 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
1. Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls and artichoke hearts. Halve the cherry tomatoes if using. Chop sun-dried tomatoes and slice garlic.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, rosemary, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir well.
3. Add mozzarella balls, artichoke hearts, olives, and cherry tomatoes to the marinade. Gently toss to coat.
4. Transfer to a glass jar or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Before serving, bring to room temperature, stir gently, and garnish with extra herbs. Serve with bread or on its own.
Notes
Always pat ingredients dry to avoid watering down the marinade.
Let it sit overnight for maximum flavor.
Use a good-quality olive oil — it makes all the difference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: easy appetizer, healthy snack, Mediterranean dish, quick recipe, dinner ideas, party food, marinated mozzarella, food ideas