Name: Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs
Prep time: 15 min
Ingredients: (Serves about 12 people – makes 24 eyeballs); 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) – about 8 oz / 225 g; 24 slices of salami – thinly sliced (around 6 oz / 170 g); 12 large green olives with pimentos, sliced in half for the “eyes”; 2 tbsp hot sauce or marinara sauce – for a bloody look; 1 tbsp pesto (optional) – adds flavor and color contrast; Fresh basil leaves (optional) – for garnish; Tip: You can swap salami for pepperoni or even turkey slices if you prefer something milder.

There’s something ridiculously fun about turning simple snacks into spooky little creations, and these Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs are one of my absolute favorites. They’re eerie, a little gross (in the best Halloween way), and so easy to put together that you’ll probably find yourself making them every October. I remember the first time I made these for a Halloween party—I didn’t expect them to disappear that fast. Kids were wide-eyed, adults were laughing, and the platter was wiped clean in minutes. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

What Are Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs?

These are bite-sized, creepy party appetizers that look like eyeballs but taste like the best Italian snack platter you’ve ever had. Each “eyeball” is made from a juicy mozzarella ball wrapped in salami, topped with an olive slice for the pupil, and drizzled with a little hot sauce or pesto for that “bloodshot” effect. It’s spooky meets savory—perfect for Halloween parties, horror movie nights, or any time you want to add some fun to your table.

Why This Recipe Is Special

What makes these eyeballs special is how they combine playful creativity with real flavor. They’re not just for looks. The tangy salami, creamy mozzarella, and briny olive make every bite bold and addictive. Plus, they come together in under 15 minutes with no cooking required. You can make them ahead of time, plate them on a dark tray, and you’ve got an instant Halloween showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy: No oven, no stove, no stress. You can make a whole batch in minutes.
Kid-Friendly: Let your kids help “assemble the eyeballs.” They’ll have a blast.
Flavorful: The salty, creamy, tangy combo is perfection.
Creepy-Cute: Ideal for Halloween parties or themed gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These can chill in the fridge until showtime.

Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want to have ready. Nothing fancy—just your everyday kitchen stuff:

Small Knife: To slice the olives and cut the mozzarella if needed.
Cutting Board: For prepping ingredients and keeping things tidy.
Toothpicks or Small Skewers: To hold everything together.
Serving Plate or Tray: A black or dark platter makes the eyeballs pop visually.
Small Bowl: For drizzling sauces like pesto or hot sauce.

Ingredients

(Serves about 12 people – makes 24 eyeballs)

24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) – about 8 oz / 225 g
24 slices of salami – thinly sliced (around 6 oz / 170 g)
12 large green olives with pimentos, sliced in half for the “eyes”
2 tbsp hot sauce or marinara sauce – for a bloody look
1 tbsp pesto (optional) – adds flavor and color contrast
Fresh basil leaves (optional) – for garnish

Tip: You can swap salami for pepperoni or even turkey slices if you prefer something milder.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Olives

Slice each olive in half horizontally so you get a nice round “pupil” shape with the red pimento in the center. Set them aside.

2. Shape the Eyeballs

Take a mozzarella ball and wrap it with a slice of salami. You want the mozzarella mostly covered but with a little bit of white showing through—that’s the “eyeball white.”

Personal note: Don’t stress if it’s not perfectly round. Once the olive goes on, everything looks great.

3. Add the Pupils

Place half an olive (cut side up) on top of each mozzarella ball. It should look like an eerie little eye staring up at you. Press gently so it sticks.

4. Secure Everything

If the salami isn’t staying put, pierce through the center with a toothpick or skewer. It not only holds the shape but also makes serving easier.

5. Add the “Bloodshot” Effect

Use a small spoon or brush to drizzle a bit of hot sauce or marinara around the olive “pupil.” You can even streak a few lines outward with a toothpick for that bloodshot look.

6. Chill Before Serving

Place the finished eyeballs on a plate or tray and chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps them firm up and keeps everything in place.

Serving Ideas

Arrange them on a black or slate platter with fake spider webs around.
Serve with toothpicks standing upright in a carved-out pumpkin for a Halloween centerpiece.
Pair them with other spooky snacks like “mummy dogs” or “witch finger breadsticks.”

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian: Skip the salami and wrap the mozzarella in thin strips of roasted red pepper.
Spicy Lovers: Add a dab of sriracha under the olive before placing it on.
Gourmet Touch: Drizzle balsamic glaze instead of hot sauce for a more elegant version.
Cheese Swap: Try smoked mozzarella or mini provolone balls for a twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can make these up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. If using hot sauce, add it right before serving to keep the colors vibrant.

Leftovers (if you somehow have any) can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge. The mozzarella may release a little liquid, so give them a quick pat with a paper towel before serving again.

Pro Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tips

Dry the mozzarella balls before assembling so the salami sticks better.
Use room-temperature salami—it’s easier to wrap than when cold.
If serving outdoors, keep them chilled until the last minute to prevent the cheese from softening too much.

Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t overload with sauce—it can make the eyeballs slippery and messy.
Avoid thick-cut salami; it won’t mold well around the cheese.
Don’t skip chilling before serving—it helps them hold their spooky shape.

Recipe Summary


Yield:	24 eyeballs
Prep Time:	15 minutes
Cook Time:	None
Total Time:	15 minutes
Difficulty:	Easy
Calories per serving:	~90 kcal (2 eyeballs)

Nutrition (per 2 eyeballs)

Calories: 90
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 1g
Sodium: 250mg

Final Thoughts

Every time I make these Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs, I’m reminded how much fun food can be when you let creativity take over. They’re quick, creepy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re throwing a big Halloween bash or just want to surprise your family with something playful, these little eyeballs are guaranteed to get a reaction.