Fresh mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can elevate many dishes. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it a great addition to both hot and cold recipes.

From classic Italian dishes to creative new twists, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious cheese.

You’ll find over 31 tasty recipes using fresh mozzarella in this collection. These ideas range from simple salads and appetizers to hearty main courses and even desserts.

Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or impressive dishes for entertaining, you’re sure to find some new favorites here.

1. Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. You’ll need fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves.

Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes, then arrange them on a plate. Tuck basil leaves between the slices for a pop of color and taste.

Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

For a twist, try making caprese skewers. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil onto small sticks for a fun appetizer.

This simple salad is perfect for summer meals or as a light snack. The fresh ingredients shine, making it a crowd-pleaser.

2. Margherita Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella

Margherita pizza is a classic Italian dish that showcases fresh mozzarella. You can make this pizza at home with just a few ingredients.

Start with a thin pizza crust. Spread a layer of San Marzano tomato sauce on top.

Add slices of fresh mozzarella and scatter some fresh basil leaves.

Bake the pizza on a hot pizza stone for about 14-16 minutes. The crust should be crispy and the cheese melted.

For best results, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh mozzarella gives the pizza a creamy texture that pairs well with the tangy tomato sauce and aromatic basil.

3. Stuffed Fresh Mozzarella Meatballs

Stuffed fresh mozzarella meatballs are a delicious twist on classic Italian meatballs. To make them, you’ll combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, herbs, and seasonings.

Form the mixture into balls, making an indent in each to stuff with a cube of fresh mozzarella. Seal the cheese inside and roll the meatballs to ensure the filling stays put.

Brown the meatballs in a pan with olive oil. Then simmer them in marinara sauce until cooked through. The mozzarella inside will melt, creating a gooey center.

Serve these cheesy meatballs over pasta or on their own as an appetizer. The combination of savory meat and melted mozzarella makes for a crowd-pleasing dish.

4. Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Grilled Cheese

Fresh mozzarella and basil elevate the classic grilled cheese. Start with thick slices of bread, like Italian or sourdough.

Layer slices of fresh mozzarella on one piece of bread. Add fresh basil leaves and sliced tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Top with the second slice of bread.

Brush the outside with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garlic powder.

Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese melts. Flip halfway through cooking.

Serve hot and enjoy the gooey, herb-filled sandwich.

5. Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Bruschetta

Tomato and fresh mozzarella bruschetta is a tasty Italian appetizer. You can make it in just 10 minutes with a few simple ingredients.

Start by toasting slices of baguette. Rub them with garlic for extra flavor.

Chop ripe tomatoes and mix with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil.

Top the bread with the tomato mixture and add small pieces of fresh mozzarella.

The creamy cheese pairs well with the juicy tomatoes and crunchy bread.

This dish is perfect for summer gatherings. You can prepare the tomato topping ahead of time and assemble just before serving. It’s a great way to use fresh garden tomatoes and basil.

6. Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Pesto

Pasta salad with fresh mozzarella and pesto is a tasty dish you can make for summer gatherings.

Cook your favorite pasta and let it cool. Mix in some homemade or store-bought pesto sauce.

Add cubed fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta.

The creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes pair well with the herby pesto flavor. You can also toss in some pine nuts for extra crunch.

This salad works great as a side dish or light meal.

You can make it ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. The flavors will blend nicely as it sits. Serve it cold or at room temperature for a refreshing pasta dish.

7. Prosciutto and Fresh Mozzarella Panini

This classic Italian sandwich combines salty prosciutto with creamy fresh mozzarella. To make it, start with good-quality ciabatta or focaccia bread.

Spread some olive oil or basil butter on the bread slices.

Layer on thinly sliced prosciutto and fresh mozzarella.

Add some extras like arugula, roasted red peppers, or tomatoes for more flavor. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if you like.

Press the sandwich in a panini maker until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts.

The warm, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the savory prosciutto.

Cut your panini in half and enjoy this tasty Italian-inspired meal. It makes a great quick lunch or light dinner option.

8. Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Tart

This tasty tart combines fresh mozzarella with ripe tomatoes for a delicious meal. You’ll need puff pastry as the base. Unroll it and trim to fit your baking pan.

Mix ricotta or cream cheese with garlic and olive oil for the filling. Spread this on the pastry, leaving space around the edges.

Top with sliced fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.

Brush the edges with egg wash and fold them over to create a border.

Bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Add fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before eating. This tart works great as a light lunch or appetizer.

9. Arugula Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Lemon Vinaigrette

This salad combines peppery arugula with creamy fresh mozzarella for a tasty contrast. The bright lemon vinaigrette ties it all together.

To make the dressing, mix lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss arugula in a large bowl. Add sliced or torn fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes.

Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat.

For extra flavor, you can add fresh basil leaves or shaved Parmesan cheese.

This light, refreshing salad works great as a side dish or light lunch.

10. Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

Eggplant Parmesan with fresh mozzarella is a tasty twist on a classic Italian dish. You’ll love the creamy texture and mild flavor the fresh mozzarella adds.

Start by slicing eggplant and salting it to remove excess moisture. While it drains, make a simple tomato sauce with olive oil, onions, and canned tomatoes.

Next, bread the eggplant slices and fry or bake them until golden.

Layer the eggplant in a baking dish with your homemade sauce and slices of fresh mozzarella.

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The result is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for dinner. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

11. Fresh Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

This tasty dish combines juicy chicken with creamy mozzarella and nutritious spinach. To make it, you’ll need chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, spinach, and a few seasonings.

Start by cutting pockets in the chicken breasts.

Stuff them with a mixture of chopped spinach and sliced mozzarella. Season the outside with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat some olive oil in a skillet and sear the stuffed chicken for about 4 minutes per side. This gives it a nice golden color. Then transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

Bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked through before serving.

This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

12. Skewers of Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil

Caprese skewers are a tasty and simple appetizer. You’ll need fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves.

Thread one tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto a small skewer or toothpick. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full.

For extra flavor, drizzle the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

You can make these ahead of time and chill them until serving.

These colorful skewers look great on a platter. They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or as a quick snack.

13. Fresh Mozzarella and Smoked Salmon Bagel

This tasty bagel combines creamy fresh mozzarella with smoky salmon. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Start with a toasted bagel of your choice. Spread cream cheese on both halves.

Add slices of fresh mozzarella and smoked salmon.

Top with thin red onion slices and capers for extra flavor. A sprinkle of fresh dill or basil adds a nice touch. You can also add sliced tomatoes if you like.

This bagel is packed with protein and offers a mix of textures. The mild mozzarella balances the strong salmon taste.

It’s a filling option that will keep you satisfied for hours.

14. Zucchini Boats with Fresh Mozzarella and Marinara

Zucchini boats offer a tasty way to enjoy fresh mozzarella and marinara sauce. To make them, cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

Fill the hollowed zucchini with a mix of cooked ground beef, onions, and garlic. Spoon marinara sauce over the filling.

Top the boats with slices of fresh mozzarella.

Bake until the zucchini is tender and the cheese melts.

You can customize these boats with other ingredients like tomatoes or Italian sausage.

They make a great low-carb meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

15. Melon and Fresh Mozzarella Salad

This refreshing salad combines sweet melon with creamy mozzarella for a perfect summer dish. You can use watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew – whichever you prefer.

Cut your melon into bite-sized cubes. Add fresh mozzarella pearls or tear larger balls into smaller pieces.

Toss in some torn basil leaves for a pop of flavor.

Drizzle the salad with olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.

For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top.

This salad works great as a light lunch or a side dish at barbecues. It’s quick to make and sure to impress your guests with its mix of flavors and textures.

16. Roasted Red Pepper and Fresh Mozzarella Sandwich

This tasty sandwich combines the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers with creamy fresh mozzarella. Start by slicing a hearty bread like ciabatta or a baguette.

Layer slices of fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers on the bread.

Add some fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

You can enjoy this sandwich cold or grill it for a warm, melty treat. If grilling, brush the outside of the bread with olive oil first.

Cook until the cheese softens and the bread is lightly toasted.

For added zest, try spreading pesto on the bread before adding the other ingredients.

This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

17. Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Soup

Fresh mozzarella and tomato soup combines two beloved Italian ingredients into a comforting dish.

This soup is perfect for cold days or when you want a light meal.

To make it, start by sautéing garlic and shallots in olive oil.

Add ripe tomatoes, broth, and herbs like oregano or thyme. Simmer until the tomatoes break down and flavors meld.

Before serving, stir in chunks of fresh mozzarella. The cheese will melt slightly, creating creamy pockets throughout the soup.

Top with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil for added flavor.

You can customize this soup by adding cream for richness or roasting the tomatoes first for a deeper taste. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

18. Avocado Toast with Fresh Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes

This tasty dish combines creamy avocado, fresh mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes on toasted bread. It’s quick to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack.

To make it, toast your favorite bread. Mash ripe avocado and spread it on the toast.

Add sliced fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes on top.

For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and torn basil leaves. The combination of textures and flavors is delicious.

You can customize this toast by using different types of bread or adding extras like pesto or lemon juice.

It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily adjust to your taste.

19. Fresh Mozzarella and Olive Tapenade Pizza

This pizza combines creamy fresh mozzarella with savory olive tapenade. To make it, spread olive tapenade on your pizza dough as the base sauce.

Top with slices of fresh mozzarella and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil before baking until the crust turns golden and cheese gets bubbly.

After baking, add some fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. The salty olives pair nicely with the mild mozzarella.

You can use a mix of green and black olives in your tapenade for variety.

This pizza offers a tasty twist on traditional margherita style. The olive spread adds a bold Mediterranean flavor that complements the creamy cheese.

20. Fresh Mozzarella Stuffed Mushrooms

Fresh mozzarella stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer or side dish. They’re easy to make and perfect for parties or gatherings.

To make them, start with fresh mushrooms. Clean and remove the stems.

Mix chopped garlic, herbs, and olive oil for flavor.

Stuff the mushroom caps with shredded fresh mozzarella. You can add other ingredients like chopped onions or basil for extra taste.

Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Cook them in a hot oven until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese melts.

These stuffed mushrooms are low in carbs and high in protein. They’re quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

21. Fresh Mozzarella and Asparagus Frittata

Fresh mozzarella and asparagus come together in this tasty frittata. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

To make it, start by cooking asparagus in a pan with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

In a bowl, whisk eggs and add herbs like basil or chives. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus in the pan.

Top with chunks of fresh mozzarella. The cheese will melt and become gooey as the frittata cooks.

Bake in the oven until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly. Serve hot, cut into wedges.

This frittata is versatile. You can add other veggies or meats to suit your taste.

It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge.

22. Flatbread with Fresh Mozzarella, Prosciutto, and Arugula

This tasty flatbread combines creamy mozzarella, salty prosciutto, and peppery arugula for a quick and easy meal. Start with a pre-made flatbread or pizza crust as your base.

Top it with slices of fresh mozzarella and bake until the cheese melts. Then add thin slices of prosciutto and a handful of fresh arugula.

Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor. This dish works great as an appetizer or light dinner.

You can customize it by adding other toppings like sliced tomatoes or red onions. The combination of flavors and textures makes this flatbread a crowd-pleaser.

23. Grilled Eggplant and Fresh Mozzarella Stacks

Grilled eggplant and fresh mozzarella stacks make a tasty summer dish. To make them, slice eggplant into rounds and brush with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Grill the eggplant slices until tender. Then layer them with sliced fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.

You can add extra flavor with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or pesto. Fresh basil leaves make a great garnish.

These stacks work well as an appetizer or light meal. You can serve them hot off the grill or at room temperature.

For best results, use high-quality fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. The combination of grilled vegetables, creamy cheese, and bright tomato flavors is sure to please.

24. Fresh Mozzarella and Fig Salad

This simple yet elegant salad combines creamy mozzarella with sweet figs. You’ll need fresh mozzarella, ripe figs, olive oil, and lemon juice.

Slice the mozzarella thinly and marinate it in olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it chill for about 2 hours, turning occasionally.

Cut a cross in the top of each fig, stopping halfway down. Gently press the sides to open them slightly.

Arrange the marinated mozzarella and figs on plates. Drizzle with the remaining marinade and add a final sprinkle of salt and pepper.

This salad works great as an appetizer or light lunch. The flavors blend nicely, with the tart lemon balancing the sweet figs and mild cheese.

25. Pesto and Fresh Mozzarella Stuffed Artichokes

Pesto and fresh mozzarella stuffed artichokes are a tasty dish that combines Italian flavors. You’ll need artichokes, pesto, and fresh mozzarella cheese.

Start by trimming and cleaning the artichokes. Steam them until tender. Let them cool slightly, then open the leaves and remove the choke.

Mix pesto with breadcrumbs for extra texture. Stuff this mixture between the artichoke leaves. Top with small cubes of fresh mozzarella.

Bake the stuffed artichokes until the cheese melts. The result is a savory appetizer or side dish with gooey cheese and herby pesto flavors.

26. Fresh Mozzarella and Peach Crostini

This summer appetizer combines sweet peaches with creamy mozzarella. Start by toasting baguette slices until golden brown.

Top each crostini with a thin slice of fresh mozzarella. Add a slice of ripe peach on top of the cheese.

Sprinkle some thinly sliced basil leaves over the peaches. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper.

The mix of flavors and textures makes this a crowd-pleasing snack. Serve these crostini at your next gathering for a taste of summer on a bite-sized toast.

27. Fresh Mozzarella and Balsamic Glazed Strawberries

This recipe combines creamy mozzarella with sweet strawberries for a tasty twist on caprese salad. Slice fresh mozzarella into thick rounds and arrange on plates.

Cut ripe strawberries into quarters and toss with a bit of sugar and balsamic vinegar. Let the berries marinate for 20-30 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Top the mozzarella slices with the glazed strawberries. Drizzle with olive oil and more balsamic vinegar if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor.

This simple dish works great as an appetizer or light summer meal. The sweet berries complement the mild cheese perfectly.

28. Fresh Mozzarella and Sauteed Spinach Omelette

This tasty omelette combines fresh mozzarella with sauteed spinach for a quick and satisfying meal. Start by whisking 3 eggs in a bowl and set aside.

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a handful of fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the spinach and set aside.

Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. As they begin to set, sprinkle shredded fresh mozzarella over one half of the omelette.

Add the sauteed spinach on top of the cheese. Fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.

Cook for another minute until the cheese melts. Slide onto a plate and enjoy your fresh mozzarella and spinach omelette.

29. Fresh Mozzarella and Roasted Vegetable Quiche

This quiche combines roasted veggies and creamy fresh mozzarella for a tasty meal. Roast your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant to bring out their flavors.

Mix the roasted veggies with chunks of fresh mozzarella and pour into a prepared pie crust. Add beaten eggs and cream to create the quiche filling.

Bake until the crust is golden and the center is set. The roasted vegetables add depth while the melted mozzarella provides a gooey, cheesy texture.

Serve this quiche warm for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s great for using up extra veggies and makes an easy vegetarian main dish.

30. Burrata and Fresh Mozzarella Appetizer Platter

A burrata and fresh mozzarella appetizer platter is a crowd-pleasing starter. Arrange burrata and mozzarella balls on a large serving board.

Add sliced peaches, prosciutto, and arugula for variety. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the cheeses.

Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Include some crusty bread or crackers on the side for guests to enjoy with the cheeses.

This platter is easy to customize. You can add other items like cherry tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs to suit your preferences.

31. Fresh Mozzarella and Avocado Quesadillas

Fresh mozzarella and avocado quesadillas are a tasty twist on the classic Mexican dish. You can make these in just 30 minutes for a quick meal.

Start by laying out flour tortillas. Spread refried beans on one half. Add shredded chicken, sliced avocado, and torn fresh mozzarella on top.

Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a pan until crispy and golden. The cheese will melt and become gooey.

For extra flavor, try adding fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can also swap the chicken for ground beef if you prefer.

Serve your quesadillas hot with salsa on the side for dipping. They make a great lunch or easy dinner option.

Understanding Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is a soft Italian cheese with a mild flavor and creamy texture. It’s made from cow’s or buffalo milk and has a short shelf life.

History and Origin

Fresh mozzarella comes from southern Italy. It was first made in the 12th century near Naples. Farmers used buffalo milk to create this cheese.

The name “mozzarella” comes from the Italian word “mozzare,” which means “to cut off.” This refers to how cheesemakers cut the curd by hand.

In the past, mozzarella was only made from water buffalo milk. Today, cow’s milk is more common. Buffalo milk mozzarella is still popular in Italy.

Fresh mozzarella spread to other countries in the 20th century. It became a key ingredient in many Italian dishes, like Caprese salad and pizza.

Nutritional Benefits

Fresh mozzarella is packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12.

Here are some key nutritional facts for a 1-ounce serving:

• Calories: 85
• Protein: 6 grams
• Fat: 6 grams
• Calcium: 14% of daily value
• Vitamin B12: 19% of daily value

Fresh mozzarella has less sodium than many other cheeses. This makes it a good choice for people watching their salt intake.

It’s also lower in calories than hard cheeses like cheddar. But it’s still high in fat, so eat it in moderation.

The protein in mozzarella helps build and repair muscles. Calcium supports strong bones and teeth. Vitamin B12 is important for brain function and making red blood cells.

Cooking Tips for Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella needs special care in storage and cooking. Proper handling keeps it fresh and helps you get the best texture when melting.

Storage and Shelf Life

Keep fresh mozzarella in its original packaging until use.

Store it in the fridge at 40°F or below.

Once opened, put it in an airtight container with some of its liquid.

Use within 5-7 days for best quality.

Don’t freeze fresh mozzarella. Freezing changes its texture.

If you must freeze it, use it only for cooked dishes after thawing.

Check for signs of spoilage before using.

Toss it if you see mold, an off smell, or slimy texture.

Melting and Texture Considerations

Fresh mozzarella melts differently than low-moisture types. It releases more water when heated. This can make pizza crusts soggy.

To avoid excess moisture:

• Pat the cheese dry with paper towels before using
• Slice or tear it just before adding to dishes
• Add it near the end of cooking time

For pizzas, try these tips:

• Use less cheese than you would with other types
• Bake the crust partway before adding cheese
• Place fresh mozzarella on top of other toppings

When grilling, put the cheese on after removing food from heat. The residual warmth will soften it nicely.