Mozzarella Pearls Small Bowl

Featured in: Light & Bright Bowls

This dish highlights tender mozzarella pearls gently seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Served in a small bowl, it offers a fresh and creamy bite perfect as a light appetizer or snack. Optional garnishes like basil leaves and balsamic glaze add brightness and depth. Ready in minutes, it's ideal for quick preparation and pairs well with fresh vegetables or crusty bread for added texture and flavor.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:31:00 GMT
Fresh mozzarella pearls glistening, ready for a quick snack or simple "Simple Cheese" appetizer. Save
Fresh mozzarella pearls glistening, ready for a quick snack or simple "Simple Cheese" appetizer. | basilrise.com

A fresh and delightful appetizer or snack featuring creamy mozzarella pearls lightly seasoned and served in a small bowl.

This simple cheese dish has become my go-to quick snack when I need something light yet satisfying.

Ingredients

  • Cheese: 125 g mozzarella pearls (drained)
  • Seasoning: 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, Pinch of sea salt, Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Garnish (optional): 4–6 fresh basil leaves, 1 tsp balsamic glaze

Instructions

Step 1:
Place the drained mozzarella pearls in a small serving bowl.
Step 2:
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
Step 3:
If desired, add fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Step 4:
Serve immediately, or chill for 10 minutes for a refreshing cold appetizer.
Creamy, bite-sized mozzarella pearls seasoned, a perfect light Italian "Simple Cheese" appetizer. Save
Creamy, bite-sized mozzarella pearls seasoned, a perfect light Italian "Simple Cheese" appetizer. | basilrise.com

My family enjoys this appetizer especially during summer evenings when we gather to chat and relax.

Notes

For added flavor, try marinating the mozzarella pearls in olive oil with garlic and herbs for 30 minutes. Serve with cherry tomatoes or crusty bread for a more substantial snack.

Required Tools

Small bowl, Spoon

Nutritional Information

Calories: 185, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 1 g, Protein: 12 g per serving

A small bowl of "Simple Cheese" appetizer: flavorful mozzarella pearls drizzled with olive oil and spices. Save
A small bowl of "Simple Cheese" appetizer: flavorful mozzarella pearls drizzled with olive oil and spices. | basilrise.com

A perfect light bite that is both quick to prepare and delightfully flavorful.

Recipe Help

What type of cheese is best for this dish?

Fresh mozzarella pearls work best due to their smooth texture and mild flavor, complementing the simple seasoning.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, marinating the mozzarella pearls in olive oil with garlic and herbs for about 30 minutes enhances the flavor if prepared in advance.

What garnishes enhance this dish?

Fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze add fragrant and tangy notes, elevating the overall taste.

Is this suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, it contains only vegetarian-friendly ingredients like mozzarella, olive oil, and herbs.

How should this dish be served?

Serve chilled or at room temperature in a small bowl for a refreshing and easy-to-enjoy option.

Mozzarella Pearls Small Bowl

Creamy mozzarella pearls lightly seasoned with olive oil and herbs, served chilled or fresh.

Getting Ready Time
5 min
0
Time Required
5 min
Created by Claire Hastings

Recipe type Light & Bright Bowls

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Italian

Serves 2 Portions

Dietary guidelines Meatless, No Gluten, Reduced-Carb

What You Need

Cheese

01 4.4 oz mozzarella pearls, drained

Seasoning

01 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
02 Pinch sea salt
03 Pinch freshly ground black pepper

Garnish (optional)

01 4–6 fresh basil leaves
02 1 tsp balsamic glaze

Steps

Step 01

Prepare Mozzarella: Place the drained mozzarella pearls in a small serving bowl.

Step 02

Season: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 03

Add Garnish: If desired, add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze for enhanced flavor.

Step 04

Serve: Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes to enjoy as a refreshing cold appetizer.

Kitchen Essentials

  • Small bowl
  • Spoon

Possible Allergens

Go through ingredients for allergens. Reach out to a health expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk; unsuitable for those with dairy allergies.

Nutrition details (per portion)

Nutrition info is for reference only, not a substitute for specialist advice.
  • Calorie Count: 185
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Proteins: 12 g