Name: Eyeball Caprese Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine size); Cherry tomatoes; Fresh basil leaves; Black or green olives (sliced into rings); Red food coloring (optional, for a bloodshot effect); Wooden skewers or toothpicks; Balsamic glaze or olive oil (optional, for serving)

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These eyeball caprese skewers are a spooky Halloween twist on the classic Italian appetizer. Fresh mozzarella balls become “eyeballs” with sliced olives for pupils and a touch of red food coloring for a bloodshot look. Paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, these creepy little bites are festive, refreshing, and perfect for a Halloween party spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s equal parts eerie and elegant. It transforms a simple appetizer into something memorable for Halloween without sacrificing flavor. The mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil keep it light and fresh, while the olive “eyeballs” add a playful touch. Best of all, these skewers come together in minutes and are easy to make in big batches for a crowd. Eyeball Caprese Skewers

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine size)
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh basil leaves
Black or green olives (sliced into rings)
Red food coloring (optional, for a bloodshot effect)
Wooden skewers or toothpicks
Balsamic glaze or olive oil (optional, for serving)

Directions

Prepare the mozzarella “eyeballs”:
I place a sliced olive ring on each mozzarella ball to create the pupil. A small dab of red food coloring around the edges makes them look bloodshot.
Assemble the skewers:
I thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, and one “eyeball” mozzarella onto each skewer. I repeat the pattern depending on the skewer length.
Finish and serve:
I arrange the skewers on a platter and, if desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze or olive oil just before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 skewers.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes for a slightly different shape.
For extra flavor, I marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before assembling.
A touch of pesto drizzled over the skewers makes them even more vibrant.
If I want a scarier look, I use green olives with pimentos for more “eyeball” detail.

Storage/Reheating

These skewers are best served fresh, but I can assemble them a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate until party time. I avoid adding balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep everything neat.

FAQs

Can I make these a day ahead?

Yes, but for the freshest look, I prepare the mozzarella “eyeballs” and slice the olives in advance, then assemble the skewers a few hours before serving.

Do I have to use red food coloring?

Not at all—it’s just for effect. The skewers still look great with plain mozzarella and olives.

What size mozzarella works best?

Ciliegine (small mozzarella balls) are the perfect size for “eyeballs,” but bocconcini (medium balls) can work if I want larger eyes.

Can I make these vegetarian-friendly?

They already are—just fresh veggies, cheese, and olives!

How do I keep the basil fresh on the skewers?

I layer the basil between the tomato and mozzarella so it stays slightly protected from air exposure.

Conclusion

These eyeball caprese skewers are a fun way to spook up a Halloween party without sacrificing fresh, delicious flavor. They’re quick to assemble, healthy enough to balance out the candy, and guaranteed to get people talking. I love how they turn a simple appetizer into something festive and unforgettable.