Get ready to send shivers (and giggles) down your guests’ spines with these Skewered Salami Eyeballs! This quick and creepy appetizer transforms mild mozzarella balls into “eyeballs” with the help of olives, red pepper, and pepperoni. Perfect for Halloween parties, they’re equal parts spooky and scrumptious—and they come together in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Frightfully Fun – A playful, eerie presentation that will be the star of any Halloween table.
- Quick & Easy – Minimal prep time and no cooking required.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be assembled a few hours before the party.
- Customizable – Adjust spice levels and garnishes to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (fresh, bite-sized)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into small wedges for decoration
- 2 tablespoons kalamata olives, finely chopped
- 4 ounces pepperoni stick, cut into chunks and slices
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mozzarella “Eyeballs” – Use a sharp knife to cut small indents into each mozzarella ball.
- Add the Pupils – Fill the indents with finely chopped kalamata olives. Press lightly so they stay in place.
- Slice the Pepperoni – Cut some into chunks about ¾ inch thick for skewer layers, and others into thin slices or strips for texture.
- Cut the Bell Pepper – Slice into small wedges; these will act as “eyelid” or garnish pieces.
- Assemble the Skewers – Thread a bell pepper wedge, a pepperoni chunk, a mozzarella “eyeball,” and a thicker pepperoni slice. Finish with thin slices of pepperoni and another mozzarella ball at the base for stability.
- Chill – Place skewers in the fridge until serving to keep them fresh and firm.
Pro Tips
- Sharper Knife = Cleaner Indents – Makes a neater spot for the “pupil.”
- Add Heat – Swap red bell pepper for thin strips of chili for a spicier bite.
- Balance the Look – Alternate pepperoni thickness for visual variety.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option – Replace pepperoni with zucchini rounds or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Different Cheeses – Try bocconcini or marinated mozzarella pearls.
- Olive Swap – Use green olives with pimento for a different “eye” look.
Storage & Reheating
Storage Tips
Keep assembled skewers covered in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Longer storage may cause cheese to release moisture.
Reheating Tips
No reheating required—these are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange on a Halloween-themed platter with fake spider webs or plastic bats for a fun effect.
- Serve alongside other themed snacks like “witch finger” breadsticks or “mummy” hot dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance can I make them?
Up to 6 hours ahead; store chilled until serving.
Can I use pre-sliced pepperoni?
Yes, but for chunkier layers, buy a stick and cut it yourself.
How do I make them spicier?
Add jalapeño slices or use spicy salami instead of pepperoni.
Do they work for kids’ parties?
Absolutely—just skip any hot peppers and go for milder flavors.
Conclusion
These Skewered Salami Eyeballs are the ultimate mix of creepy and tasty. In under 20 minutes, you can have a platter of edible “eyeballs” that’s bound to get both laughs and gasps. Make them your own with fun variations, then watch them disappear faster than a ghost at midnight!
Print
Skewered Salami Eyeballs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers
- Category: snacks
- Method: no-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Mozzarella balls turned into spooky “eyeballs” with olives, pepperoni, and bell pepper—perfect for Halloween snacking.
Ingredients
1 cup mozzarella balls
1 red bell pepper, cut into small wedges
2 tablespoons kalamata olives, finely chopped
4 ounces pepperoni stick, cut into chunks and slices
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
1. Use a sharp knife to cut small indents into each mozzarella ball.
2. Fill the indents with finely chopped kalamata olives.
3. Cut pepperoni into chunks (about ¾ inch) and thin slices.
4. Slice bell pepper into small wedges.
5. Thread bell pepper wedge, pepperoni chunk, mozzarella “eyeball,” and a thicker pepperoni slice. Finish with thin slices and another mozzarella ball at base.
6. Chill skewers until serving.
Notes
Best assembled within 6 hours of serving.
For a spicier version, use chili pepper instead of bell pepper.
Alternate pepperoni sizes for a more interesting look.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 20
