Mozzarella Ripiena (Stuffed Mozzarella)
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
This delightful Italian recipe for Mozzarella Ripiena takes the humble mozzarella to a whole new level by stuffing it with a delicious combination of fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, and mozzarella cubes. Simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion and brings a little bit of Italy right to your table.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mozzarella | 4 balls |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 80g |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | A few leaves |
| Dried Oregano | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mozzarella:
Start by carefully cutting the top off each mozzarella ball to create a hollow center. Keep the removed top pieces aside, as you will need them later. This will form the base for your stuffing. -
Drain the Mozzarella:
Place the hollowed mozzarella balls in a colander with the opening facing downward. This will help drain any excess moisture from the cheese, ensuring your filling doesnโt become soggy. -
Prepare the Filling:
Wash and cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters. Add the tomato pieces to a mixing bowl. Next, take the reserved mozzarella tops and cut them into small cubes, then add them to the bowl with the tomatoes. -
Season the Filling:
Add a pinch of salt, a few cracks of black pepper, and the dried oregano to the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the mixture to bring a fresh, aromatic flavor to the stuffing. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil for added richness and mix everything together gently. This creates a vibrant and flavorful filling. -
Stuff the Mozzarella:
Carefully stuff the hollowed mozzarella balls with the prepared filling. Pack it in tightly, but be sure not to tear the cheese. Once filled, top each stuffed mozzarella with a few extra cubes of mozzarella that were set aside earlier for an extra cheesy touch. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the stuffed mozzarella on a serving platter, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top if desired, and serve immediately. You can also add an extra sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of black pepper to enhance the flavors. This dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a light main course, offering a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors.
Tips for Success:
- Be sure to drain the mozzarella well to avoid a watery filling.
- Feel free to customize the filling with other fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for different flavor profiles.
- This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or as part of a larger Italian feast.
This Mozzarella Ripiena is a simple yet impressive dish thatโs perfect for any season. Whether served as a starter or a light lunch, the combination of creamy mozzarella and the freshness of the tomatoes and basil creates a flavorful, satisfying experience. Enjoy!
