Hey y'all! If you're searching for a hilariously spooky and scrumptiously savory treat that'll wow your party guests, these Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs are about to become your new go-to appetizer. They're perfect for Halloween parties, movie nights, or anytime you want your snacks to have a little extra 'eye appeal.' With creamy mozzarella, salty salami, and tangy olives, they're as delicious as they are creepy-cute. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Recipe
- Super quick and easy to assemble, requiring no baking at all.
- Perfectly spooky for Halloween, but yummy enough for any party.
- Customizable for various tastes and dietary needs.
- Kid-friendly and fun for little helpers to make.
- Bursting with bold, savory flavors in every bite!
Ingredients for Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- 12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 12 thin slices of salami (about 3 inches diameter)
- 12 large green olives stuffed with pimiento
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (for adhesion)
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds (optional, for "pupil" decoration)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each ball so they'll sit flat.
Step 2: Wrap with Salami
Lay a slice of salami flat, then place a mozzarella ball in the center. Wrap the salami around the cheese and secure with a dab of cream cheese if needed.
Step 3: Create the Eyeball Effect
Slice each olive in half. Smear a tiny bit of cream cheese on the cut side of an olive half, then gently press it onto the center of the mozzarella ball to form the "iris." For extra detail, press a black sesame seed in the olive for the "pupil." (Cheese ball tips)
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Arrange your Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs on a platter, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Notes & Tips
- Use high-quality mozzarella and salami for the best flavor and texture.
- If the salami won’t adhere, secure with a decorative toothpick or use more cream cheese.
- Try alternative olives such as Kalamata or black olives for varied looks and taste (Olive types guide).
Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the salami for roasted red pepper strips or zucchini ribbons.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy salami or stuff the olives with jalapeños.
- Vegan Version: Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese balls and salami with plant-based deli slices.
Required Equipment for Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Sharp knife
- Small spoon or butter knife (for cream cheese)
- Paper towels
- Serving platter
Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs Storage Instructions
Store leftover eyeballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled for best flavor and appearance. Avoid freezing, as cheese texture may change.
Serving Recommendations & Pairings
- Serve alongside other Halloween appetizers for a full spooky spread.
- Pair with crackers, breadsticks, or a crisp veggie tray.
- Great with sparkling water or themed cocktails like Bloody Marys!
Pro Tips for Best Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Chill mozzarella balls before assembling for easier handling.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth spreading and adhesion.
- Try a variety of olives for colorful, unique "eyeballs" (Stuffed olive ideas).
Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs FAQ
- Can I make Halloween Olive Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them up to one day in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. - What can I use instead of salami?
Try prosciutto, vegetarian deli slices, or roasted veggies for a similar effect. - How do I keep the eyeballs from rolling around?
Slice a little off the mozzarella base so each eyeball sits flat on the platter.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 12 eyeballs
Ingredients
- 12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 12 slices of salami
- 12 green olives with pimento
- 1 tablespoon black olive tapenade or chopped black olives
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks for assembly
Instructions
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1Pat the mozzarella balls dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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2Wrap each mozzarella ball with a slice of salami, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
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3Slice the green olives in half and place one half on top of each mozzarella ball to resemble an eyeball.
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4Add a small dot of black olive tapenade or a piece of chopped black olive in the center of each green olive to mimic a pupil.
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5Drizzle the assembled eyeballs with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper and chopped parsley before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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