Description
Merry Mozzarella Bites is a light and flavorful appetizer featuring cilingine cheese tossed in a vibrant mixture of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, white balsamic vinegar, and a touch of spice from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a quick, elegant snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon thinly sliced chives
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Cheese
- 8 ounces cilingine cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium serving bowl, mix together the extra-virgin olive oil, thinly sliced chives, white balsamic vinegar, finely chopped fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Toss the cheese: Add the cilingine cheese to the bowl with the marinade and gently toss it to ensure the cheese is evenly coated with the herbed oil mixture, allowing the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Cilingine is a fresh, small mozzarella-style cheese that can be substituted with bocconcini or small mozzarella balls if unavailable.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or fresh salad greens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
