Marinated Mozzarella Cheese Balls
from http://www.thekitchn.com/

Summertime is all about easy entertaining and easier food: bountiful produce allows us to spend less time fussing in the kitchen and more time al fresco with friends. I'm all about quick recipes that produce big flavor, and these marinated mozzarella balls do just that. The best part? They get better the longer they sit, so make a triple batch and you'll always be ready for unannounced guests that come your way.

They are impressive enough to serve alone, but are right at home in a more expansive spread of appetizers or antipasti platter. Even better, they require minimal prep and can be adapted to whatever ingredients you already have on hand.

3/4 cup good-quality olive oil
5-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced [we used 3]
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (i.e. basil, thyme, oregano, and/or parsley) [we used dried herbs: 1/2 tsp. basil, 1/2 tsp. parsley, 1/4 tsp. oregano, pinch thyme]
1 teaspoon whole black or rainbow peppercorns
1-2 bay leaves
Peel from half a lemon, thinly sliced
Splash of sherry, red wine, or balsamic vinegar
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Kosher salt, to taste
1 pound (16 ounces) bocconcini or ciliegine, drained (See Recipe Notes)

Heat olive oil and garlic in a small sauce pan over medium low heat until bubbling gently. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Stir in herbs, peppercorns, lemon slices, and bay leaf. Add vinegar, red pepper flakes, and salt to taste. Pour the mixture over the bocconcini and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate and allow to marinate overnight or up to two weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy the marinated bocconcini on their own or as part of an antipasto platter with cured meats, marinated artichokes, roasted pepper, olives, and/or crusty bread.

Recipe Notes
Bocconcini (and ciliegine) are 1- to 2-inch balls of fresh mozzarella packed in water. They can be found in gourmet cheese section of well-stocked grocery stores. Feel free to substitute feta or goat cheese if desired

Serves 6 to 8