Spooky Skewered Salami Eyeballs

These skewered salami eyeballs create a playful, creepy appetizer that delivers both visual impact and delicious flavor in every bite. My family can't get enough of these during our Halloween gatherings, as they combine the perfect mix of Italian-inspired ingredients with spooky presentation.

I first created these eyeballs for my son's Halloween birthday party five years ago. The kids were absolutely mesmerized by the presentation, and even the adults couldn't resist grabbing a skewer or two before dinner. Now they've become our signature Halloween tradition.

Ingredients

• Mozzarella balls: The perfect blank canvas for creating eyeballs with their white color and soft texture
• Red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch that balances the saltiness of the other ingredients
• Kalamata olives: Their dark color creates realistic pupils while adding a tangy, briny flavor contrast
• Pepperoni stick: Provides the meaty foundation with its classic Italian seasoning and satisfying chew

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mozzarella Eyes:

Take each mozzarella ball and carefully cut a small round indent in the center. The indent should be just deep enough to hold a piece of olive but not so deep that it cuts through the cheese. Work slowly with a paring knife for precision as this creates the eye socket effect that makes these treats so realistic.

Create the Pupils:

Finely chop the kalamata olives into tiny pieces that will fit perfectly into the indents you created in the mozzarella. Press each olive piece gently into the mozzarella indentation. The contrast between the white cheese and dark olive immediately creates an eyeball effect that looks startlingly realistic when completed properly.

Prepare the Pepperoni:

Cut your pepperoni stick into two different forms. First make thick chunks about 3/4 inch long that will serve as the main body parts on your skewer. Then slice some thinner pieces about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick that will be used for layering effects. The varied thicknesses create visual interest and better texture when eating.

Cut the Red Pepper Accents:

Slice the red bell pepper into small wedge shapes that will serve as decorative elements. These bright red pieces resemble bloody accents when placed on the skewer and add a pop of color against the white mozzarella and reddish pepperoni. Their sweet flavor also balances the saltiness of the other ingredients.

Assemble Your Eyeball Skewers:

Thread components onto each skewer starting with a red pepper piece at the top followed by a chunk of pepperoni. Next add your prepared mozzarella eyeball. Follow with another thick slice of pepperoni. Finish the base with a few thin pepperoni slices and a plain mozzarella ball at the bottom for stability. The layering creates a grotesque yet appetizing visual.

Chill Before Serving:

Place your completed eyeball skewers in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the components firm up which makes them easier to handle during your party and enhances the overall creepy effect as the cold cheese takes on a more eyeball like appearance.

The kalamata olives are truly the secret ingredient that transforms these from ordinary cheese skewers into something extraordinary. My daughter actually suggested using them instead of black olives during our first attempt, and their complex flavor makes such a difference. Last year, my brother in law was so impressed by these that he requested I make them for his adult Halloween party too.

Creative Variations

The beauty of these creepy eyeballs lies in their versatility. Try substituting the mozzarella with chunks of provolone or even cubes of pepper jack for a spicier version. The mild heat pairs surprisingly well with the pepperoni and gives adult guests an unexpected kick. For an extra sophisticated twist, marinate your mozzarella balls in olive oil and herbs before assembling your skewers.

Serving Suggestions

Display these macabre treats on a black platter sprinkled with Italian herbs for maximum visual impact. I like to arrange them standing upright in a circle, creating what my kids call the "eyeball graveyard." Pair them with a blood red marinara dipping sauce in a small cauldron or black bowl to enhance the Halloween theme. These eyeballs work beautifully alongside other finger foods like deviled eggs decorated as spiders or breadstick "bones" with hummus.

Storage Tips

These eyeball skewers will maintain their best quality when refrigerated for up to two days. Store them in an airtight container with a paper towel on the bottom to absorb any excess moisture. For optimal presentation, assemble the skewers completely except for the olive pupils, then add those just before serving to prevent any color bleeding into the white mozzarella. If transporting to another location, lay them flat in a container with sides to prevent rolling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble these skewers a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until serving.

→ What can I use instead of kalamata olives?

If you prefer, you can use any black or green olives as substitutes to create the 'eye' effect on the mozzarella balls.

→ How do I make them spicier?

For extra spice, you can add dried chili flakes or use spicy cured meats like hot pepperoni or chorizo.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, bocconcini or mini mozzarella balls work great, and you could even experiment with firm cheeses cut into small rounds.

→ What are some serving suggestions?

Serve the skewers on a Halloween-themed platter or add decorative elements like plastic spiders for extra festivity.