Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives
An easy Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring creamy mozzarella balls, tender marinated artichokes, and briny olives tossed in a zesty herb-garlic-lemon marinade.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Mini Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine or Bocconcini): 1 cup – Creamy base that soaks up the marinade flavors.
- Marinated Artichoke Hearts: 1 cup, quartered – Tangy and tender with a silky bite.
- Olives: 1 cup, green or Kalamata – Briny contrast that balances the creaminess.
- Olive Oil: 1/3 cup – Carrier for all the marinade flavor.
- Red or White Wine Vinegar: 2 tablespoons – Adds bright acidity.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely grated – For deep, savory flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – Classic herb blend that ties everything together.
- Fresh Herbs (parsley, basil, thyme): 1 tablespoon, chopped – Brightens the mix.
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon – Adds fresh citrus aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste – Essential for balance.
- Chopped Pistachios (optional): 2 tablespoons – For crunch and color.
- Mix the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, fresh herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Add mozzarella balls, artichokes, and olives to the bowl. Gently toss to coat evenly.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Serve and Enjoy: Bring to room temperature before serving. Top with pistachios and extra herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella packed in water for best texture.
- Substitute white balsamic vinegar for a sweeter twist.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or chili flakes for a bold variation.
- Save leftover marinade as a salad dressing or bread dip.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Marinated Mozzarella Balls, antipasto platter, Mediterranean appetizer, olive artichoke salad