7 Ways With Mozzarella

Shredded, whole, or sliced, mild-flavored mozzarella is typically enjoyed on pizzas or Italian pasta dishes. Branch out beyond the ordinary with Mexican-inspired quesadillas, creamy risotto, smoky tarts, and sizzling burgers. You'll soon finding yourself buying more than the simple shredded, bagged variety at the store.

Stylishly simple, these easy appetizers are made by topping cubes of mozzarella with a bit of sun dried tomato, spices, and a splash of olive oil. Skewer them on stalks of fresh rosemary and chill for eight hours to allow flavors to blend.Recipe: Marinated Mozzarella

With a hint of culinary fusion, these simple quesadillas are stuffed with the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean: shredded or sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts. For variety, try flavored flour tortillas instead of the plain.Recipe: Tomato and Mozzarella Quesadillas

Take a shortcut with refrigerated pizza dough or a premade pizza crust and this simple but sublime combo of country ham, sliced Roma tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella can be only the table in less than 20 minutes.Recipe: Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pizza

The trio of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil leaves are one of those hallmark flavor combinations that are made even better when stirred into creamy hot risotto. A drizzle of thickened balsamic vinegar finishes off the dish and makes for an elegant weeknight or weekend supper.Recipe: Risotto with Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes and Basil

Deli ham, sliced mozzarella, basil and hot cherry peppers are sandwiched between the flat Italian bread called ciabatta, and a brush of Dijon and a splash of balsamic vinegar add more flavor. Grill the sandwich with an improvised panini press, otherwise known as two skillets.Recipe: Mozzarella, Ham and Basil Panini

Roasted eggplant, tomatoes and smoky mozzarella cheese make for a rich and filling combination that satisfies meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Making this on a weeknight? Buy a premade pizza crust to save time.Recipe: Eggplant, Tomato, and Smoked Mozzarella Tart

Roasting is a great way to concentrate flavor in winter (out of season) tomatoes. But go one step further and tuck a thin slice of mozzarella between two hot tomato halves for a tasty side dish or appetizer.Recipe: Tomato and Mozzarella Burger