Italian Salsa Verde Marinated Mozzarella Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe is originally designed to serve 16. Ingredient quantities scale automatically, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note that some recipes do not scale perfectly.

• 3 tablespoons capers
• 2 anchovy fillets
• 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
• 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 (8-ounce) s mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained
• 1 (10-ounce) package cherry tomatoes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Place the capers, anchovies, garlic, green onions, parsley, and mint into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped, then transfer to a medium bowl.
2. Add the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper to the herb mixture. Gently fold in the mini mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 13g (17% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (23% DV)
• Cholesterol: 23mg (8% DV)
• Sodium: 263mg (11% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 2g (1% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 7g (13% DV)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (5% DV)
• Calcium: 151mg (12% DV)
• Iron: 0mg (2% DV)
• Potassium: 54mg (1% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on ingredient brands and preparation methods. Consult a healthcare professional if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Italian Salsa Verde Marinated Mozzarella

Italian Salsa Verde Marinated Mozzarella is a dish that beautifully reflects Italys deep-rooted love for fresh, vibrant flavors. The tradition of marinating cheeses dates back centuries, when Italian households sought ways to preserve fresh mozzarella while infusing it with herbs, oil, and citrus. Originating from the regions of central Italy, particularly Tuscany and Lazio, salsa verde was initially a rustic accompaniment for meats and vegetables. Over time, creative cooks began pairing it with soft cheeses like mozzarella, transforming it into a popular appetizer that highlights the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine.

Regional Variations and Nuances

Regional differences in Italy significantly influence the preparation of this dish. In northern Italy, parsley-heavy versions are common, whereas central Italy often incorporates mint for a refreshing twist. Some coastal regions, especially near Naples, add anchovies and capers, enhancing the umami flavor of the mozzarella. The choice of olive oil also plays a crucial role; a peppery, extra-virgin olive oil from Tuscany or Puglia will yield a distinctly aromatic finish compared to a milder oil from Liguria. Even the type of mozzarella matters: ciliegine (small mozzarella balls) are favored for their tender texture and uniform marination, while larger mozzarella pieces are more common in home-cooked variations.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While many Italian dishes feature fresh mozzarella, marinated mozzarella with salsa verde stands out for its bright, herbaceous flavor profile. Unlike Caprese salad, which layers mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic, this recipe emphasizes a fully integrated marinade where herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil permeate the cheese over several hours. It differs from typical Italian antipasti as well; traditional antipasti often include cured meats, olives, or roasted vegetables, whereas marinated mozzarella focuses purely on the interplay between fresh cheese and vibrant herbs.

Where Youll Typically Find It

This dish is commonly served as an appetizer in both casual trattorias and fine-dining restaurants across Italy. It also appears at festive gatherings and family meals, particularly during summer when cherry tomatoes are in season. In modern Italian-American cuisine, marinated mozzarella is a staple on antipasto platters, served alongside cured meats, olives, and crusty bread. Its elegant presentation and fresh, tangy flavor make it a favorite at cocktail parties and catered events as well.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of parsley, mint, and lemon in the salsa verde is believed to have originated as a digestive aid in traditional Italian cooking.
• Marinating mozzarella not only enhances flavor but also slightly firms the cheese, making it easier to serve on skewers or as part of a platter.
• Capers and anchovies, common in coastal recipes, add a subtle saltiness that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
• This dish has become popular internationally, inspiring variations using burrata or smoked mozzarella in place of the traditional ciliegine.
• Marinated mozzarella pairs exceptionally well with crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino, emphasizing the freshness of the herbs and lemon.

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