These fun Eyeball Caprese Skewers turn a classic salad into a spooky treat! Easy to make, they feature fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil, all on a stick.
Perfect for parties, they look creepy yet cute! I love how you can whip them up in no time, and they’re always a hit with guests. Just don’t be surprised if they disappear fast! 👀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are the star of the dish! Use firm, brightly colored ones for the best flavor. You can swap them for grape tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini is perfect here, but any small mozzarella balls work. If you’re dairy-free, try using tofu cubes marinated in Italian herbs.
Black Olives: They mimic the pupil of the eyeball. You can use green olives for a different look or omit them if you’re not a fan. Capers also work for a tangy twist!
Pesto Sauce: It’s optional but adds great flavor. If you’re allergic to nuts, try a dairy-free basil oil or a simple olive oil with fresh basil to drizzle.
How Do I Hollow Cherry Tomatoes Without Making a Mess?
Hollowing out cherry tomatoes is simple with these tips. Start with a sharp knife to slice them in half. Use a small spoon or a grapefruit spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp gently.
- Be gentle to avoid tearing the tomato skin.
- Pat them dry afterward to prevent sogginess.
- If you want it easier, use a small melon baller; it works great!
Using these tips, you’ll have perfectly hollowed tomatoes ready for your eyeball skewers!
Eyeball Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved and hollowed slightly
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 small black olive slices or whole small black olives, pitted
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce or basil oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks or small decorative skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time hollowing out the tomatoes and assembling the skewers. They can be served immediately or made ahead and chilled until you’re ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:
Start by slicing each cherry tomato in half carefully. Use a small spoon or your fingers to scoop out some seeds and pulp, creating a little cup. This will make space for the cheese later!
2. Dry the Tomato Halves:
Once hollowed out, pat the tomato halves dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture that could make the skewers soggy.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Take one fresh mozzarella ball and place it on top of each tomato half, gently pressing down to secure it. This is the “eyeball” of your skewer!
4. Add the Pupil:
On each mozzarella ball, place a small black olive slice or a whole small olive to represent the eyeball’s pupil. It gives the fun illusion of a creepy eyeball!
5. Secure with Skewers:
Insert a toothpick or small decorative skewer through the top of each “eyeball” to hold everything in place. Make sure it goes through the tomato and mozzarella for stability.
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the assembled eyeball caprese skewers on a serving plate. If you’d like, drizzle a little pesto sauce or basil oil over the skewers to add an extra burst of flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste.
7. Final Touches:
Garnish the plate with fresh basil leaves to create a beautiful presentation. Feel free to make the dish ahead of time—just refrigerate until you’re ready to serve!
These spooky yet delicious caprese skewers are the perfect addition for Halloween parties or any fun gathering! Enjoy your creepy culinary creation! 🎃
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use grape tomatoes or even smaller heirloom varieties. Just make sure they are firm and flavorful!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try marinated tofu cubes or vegan cheese alternatives. Just ensure they are sliced to fit nicely on top of the tomatoes.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best enjoyed within 1-2 days, as the tomatoes may lose their firmness over time.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve, but try to add the olive ‘pupils’ closer to serving time to keep everything fresh!
