Description
Spicy marinated mozzarella pearls soaked in a garlicky chili olive oil marinade. These bold, tangy Baby Diablo Balls are quick to prepare and make a flavorful appetizer perfect for charcuterie boards, parties, or snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb mozzarella pearls or small fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella pearls thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels so the marinade sticks better.
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, chili flakes or chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Warm the mixture for about 1 minute to release the aroma of the spices.
- Remove the oil from heat and allow it to cool slightly for about 3 minutes.
- Place the mozzarella balls in a mixing bowl and pour the warm chili oil mixture over them.
- Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Toss gently until the mozzarella balls are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or jar and let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Patting the mozzarella dry helps the marinade adhere better.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the chili flakes.
- Allow the mozzarella to marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Serve at room temperature so the olive oil stays liquid.
- Optional additions include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 balls
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
