Halloween appetizers are all about combining spooky fun with delicious flavor, and these Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs do just that. With creamy mozzarella, savory salami, and a creepy yet playful presentation, they are sure to be the highlight of your Halloween party spread. Plus, they are quick to make and require no cooking, making them perfect for last minute entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Recipe
These eyeball skewers look eerie but taste absolutely amazing. Here is why you will love making them:
- ⏱️ Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes
- 🧀 A fun mix of savory Italian flavors with a spooky twist
- 👩👩👧👦 Kid friendly to assemble and decorate together
- 🎃 Perfect for Halloween parties, potlucks, or themed dinners
- 🔄 Versatile with endless ingredient variations
Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Ingredients & Substitutions
- Mozzarella Balls: Fresh bocconcini or ciliegine size. You can use string cheese cut into rounds if needed.
- Salami Slices: Thinly sliced. Pepperoni or turkey slices can work as well.
- Olives: Black or green olives, sliced to create the pupil. Stuffed olives add extra flavor.
- Red Bell Pepper or Pimento: For a bloodshot look. Sriracha or ketchup can also be used for red streaks.
- Fresh Herbs or Toothpicks/Skewers: To assemble the eyeballs.
Substitutions:
- Swap mozzarella with mini Babybel cheese for a firmer option.
- Use vegetarian deli slices instead of salami for a meat free version.
- Add sun dried tomatoes for an extra savory punch.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Drain mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Lay out salami slices on a clean surface.
- Place one mozzarella ball in the center of each salami slice.
- Fold the salami up around the mozzarella and secure with a toothpick or small skewer.
- Slice olives into thin rounds and place one on top of each mozzarella ball to resemble a pupil.
- Add small strips of red bell pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to mimic bloodshot eyes.
- Arrange skewers on a platter and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Always dry mozzarella balls well to keep the salami from slipping.
- Use small skewers for bite size servings or longer ones for fun party platters.
- Prepare close to serving time for the freshest look.
- If making ahead, keep them chilled and add the olive pupils just before serving.
Variations of Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Spicy Eyeballs: Use spicy salami or add jalapeño slices.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap salami with zucchini or cucumber ribbons.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a cube of cheddar or gouda for variety.
- Halloween Deluxe: Alternate eyeballs with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a creepy caprese skewer.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Pair with other Halloween appetizers like mummy hot dogs or monster taco skulls.
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Add to a spooky themed charcuterie board with crackers, nuts, and fruits.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended as mozzarella and salami do not freeze well.
- Reheating: Not necessary, best served cold or at room temperature.
Memories Made Around the Table
The first time I made these, my kids could not stop giggling at the “eyeballs” staring back at them from the platter. They had just as much fun decorating them as they did eating them. It turned into a family tradition that makes our Halloween spreads extra special.
FAQs
Can I make Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Add olive pupils just before serving for the best look.
Do I need a special type of mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) work best. String cheese cut into pieces can be used if needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace salami with thin cucumber slices, roasted red pepper strips, or vegetarian deli slices.
Final Thoughts & Printable Recipe
Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs are the perfect balance of spooky and delicious. With simple ingredients and no cooking required, you can whip them up in minutes for your Halloween gathering. Give them a try and do not forget to pin or share them so more people can enjoy this fun Italian twist on a spooky appetizer!
Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
Equipment
- Toothpicks or small skewers
- Paper towels
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 mozzarella balls bocconcini or ciliegine size, patted dry
- 20 slices salami thinly sliced
- 10 olives black or green, sliced into rings for pupils
- red bell pepper strips or sriracha optional, for bloodshot eye effect
Instructions
- Pat dry mozzarella balls with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Lay out the salami slices and place one mozzarella ball in the center of each.
- Wrap salami up around each mozzarella ball and secure with a toothpick or mini skewer.
- Place an olive slice on top of each mozzarella ball to form the pupil.
- Optionally, add thin strips of red bell pepper or drizzle sriracha to create bloodshot veins.
- Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.