Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives

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A party-perfect appetizer or a lazy-day snack plate, these marinated mozzarella balls with artichokes and olives offer a rich and vibrant blend of Mediterranean flavors that come together in just minutes. Think creamy mozzarella pearls soaked in olive oil and herbs, paired with the tang of marinated artichokes and briny bite of olives. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is unbelievably easy to throw together.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, packing a picnic, or building a mezze platter, this marinated mix adds elegance and bright, fresh flavor to the table. With no cooking involved, it’s all about assembling quality ingredients and letting them shine. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives

You’ll love how effortlessly elegant this dish is. It’s incredibly versatile—serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a charcuterie spread. The flavors are balanced and bold, yet approachable, and the textures keep every bite interesting. It’s also totally customizable based on your favorite herbs or olives.

What Kind of Mozzarella Balls Work Best?

Opt for ciliegine, which are small cherry-sized mozzarella balls. They soak up the marinade quickly and offer the perfect bite-size texture for serving on their own or skewering with a toothpick. If you only find larger mozzarella balls, simply cut them into chunks.

Ingredients for the Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives

The beauty of this appetizer lies in its simplicity and flavor-packed components. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mozzarella balls: These are the creamy base that soak up all the herby, garlicky marinade goodness.

Artichoke hearts: Marinated artichokes add tang, texture, and a bit of zest.

Mixed olives: Choose a variety like Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives for contrast in flavor and color.

Olive oil: Acts as the rich, luscious base for the marinade.

Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring punch and aroma.

Fresh herbs: Use rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil for a burst of garden-fresh flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds a subtle warmth and edge.

Lemon zest: Brings brightness and ties everything together with a citrus pop.

How To Make the Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Drain the mozzarella balls and marinated artichoke hearts. If using whole olives with pits, consider pitting them or advising guests. Slice any large artichoke pieces into bite-size chunks.

Step 2: Build the Marinade

In a medium bowl or jar, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Stir or shake to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, add mozzarella balls, artichoke hearts, and olives. Pour the marinade over and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Let it sit at least 30 minutes before serving, but preferably chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Give it a final toss before serving. Add a few fresh herb sprigs on top for garnish. Best served at room temperature so the olive oil isn’t too firm.

How to Serve and Store This Mediterranean Mix

This dish serves about 6 as a starter or snack. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a larger appetizer spread. To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The olive oil will solidify, so let it come to room temperature before serving again.

What to Serve With Marinated Mozzarella Balls, Artichokes, and Olives?

Crusty Baguette or Sourdough

Perfect for sopping up the herbed olive oil.

Cured Meats

Prosciutto, salami, or capicola enhance the savory profile.

Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, eggplant, and peppers round out the Mediterranean vibe.

Roasted Nuts

Marcona almonds or spiced cashews bring crunch and richness.

Hummus or Tzatziki

Add a creamy dip for scooping and spreading.

Wine Pairing

Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or chilled rosé.

Pickled Vegetables

A few pickled onions or peppers cut through the richness.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you’re into bold bites and easy prep, here are some of our reader-favorite appetizer recipes you might love:

• Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for a sweet and spicy surprise.
• Creamy Corn Dip for your next game day craving.
• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad if you want something familiar and crowd-pleasing.
• Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes with Fresh Salsa for a crispy twist on Southern flavor.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn for the ultimate sweet-savory combo.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the herbs? Add sun-dried tomatoes? Serve it warm?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Ask away if you have questions!

Explore beautifully curated appetizer and snack recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite bite.

Conclusion

This marinated mozzarella, artichoke, and olive dish is one of those magical recipes that feels like more than the sum of its parts. It’s a celebration of bold flavors, minimal effort, and sharing good food with people you love. Add it to your next gathering and watch it disappear fast.

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