Get ready for a spooky treat with these Eyeball Caprese Skewers! Made with fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of pesto, they’re as fun to look at as they are to eat.
These adorable skewers are perfect for Halloween or any fun gathering. I mean, who wouldn’t want to eat some “eyeballs”? Plus, they are super easy to make—just assemble and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes are perfect for this dish thanks to their sweet flavor and juicy texture. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes work well too!
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: I recommend using bocconcini for their size and creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using marinated tofu balls or a plant-based mozzarella.
Black Olives: They create the perfect “pupil.” You can switch to green olives if you prefer a different flavor. Just keep an eye on the taste—green olives are saltier!
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil elevates the dish’s presentation. If you’re out of basil, spinach can be a good alternative to add a pop of green beneath the skewers.
Balsamic Glaze: While optional, it adds a nice tangy sweetness. You could substitute it with a drizzle of lemon juice for brightness if balsamic isn’t available.
How Do You Hollow Out Cherry Tomatoes Without Making a Mess?
Hollowing out cherry tomatoes might seem tricky, but it’s all about the right technique! Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Use a sharp paring knife to slice off the top of the tomato.
- Take a small spoon or melon baller and gently scoop out the insides.
- Try to be gentle, so the tomato skin doesn’t rip. Aim for a small cavity to fit the mozzarella!
I find it helps to work over a bowl to catch any juices that may spill out. It’s all about easy prep for a festive treat!
Eyeball Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 black olives, pitted
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish and plating)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Balsamic glaze or reduction (optional, for drizzle)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Smoked paprika or mild chili powder (optional, for a hint of color/spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, with no cooking required! It’s a quick and fun way to create a festive Halloween appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:
Start by slicing the tops off the cherry tomatoes—just a little slice, don’t cut too deep! Use a small spoon or melon baller to gently scoop out the insides, creating a little bowl for the mozzarella. This step can get a bit messy, so work over a bowl to catch any juices.
2. Prepare the Mozzarella:
Next, take your mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them fit snugly inside the tomatoes without making everything soggy.
3. Assemble the Eyeballs:
Now, place one mozzarella ball into each hollowed cherry tomato. This will create the “eyeball” effect. It’s starting to look spooky already!
4. Secure With a Skewer:
To hold everything together, take a toothpick or a small bamboo skewer and carefully pierce it through the center of the stuffed tomato. Make sure it goes all the way through to keep the mozzarella in place.
5. Create the “Pupil”:
On top of each mozzarella ball, gently place half of a black olive to act as the “pupil” of the eyeball. Press down slightly so that it stays in place without squishing the cheese.
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Time to make it pretty! Arrange your skewers on a serving platter lined with fresh basil leaves. The green will pop against the red and white, making it look even more festive.
7. Drizzle and Season:
Finally, drizzle some olive oil over the assembled skewers and if you like, add a splash of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of smoked paprika or mild chili powder for a bit of spice and color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Eyeball Caprese Skewers are ready to serve! Enjoy them right away to keep everything fresh and delicious. They make for a fun addition to any Halloween party or informal gathering!
This playful take on a classic Caprese salad is sure to delight your guests—and perfect for the spooky season!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can try using feta cheese or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just make sure the cheese can be shaped into a ball or similar size to fit inside the cherry tomatoes.
How Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cherry tomatoes and stuff them with mozzarella in advance! Just store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before your event. Add the olives and drizzle with olive oil just before serving to ensure the tomatoes stay fresh.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Black Olives?
If black olives aren’t available, you can substitute them with green olives, capers for a briny flavor, or even pieces of roasted red pepper for a colorful and tasty alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but they’ll still be delicious! Enjoy them cold or let them come to room temperature before serving.