The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Inaya, and today we’re making something a little spooky but a lot of fun Skewered Eyeball Caprese Bites! Growing up on the island of Crete, Halloween wasn’t a big tradition, but food has always been at the heart of every celebration. Over the years, I’ve come to love how Halloween brings families and friends together in such a playful way.
This recipe is my Greek-inspired twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Instead of serving it in a bowl, I’ve turned it into creepy little skewered “eyeballs” that are perfect for Halloween parties. Mozzarella balls become the “eyes,” cherry tomatoes give them that red, bloodshot look, and black olives form the pupils. A drizzle of balsamic glaze finishes everything with bold flavor.
What I adore about these bites is how easy they are to make. They’re fun for kids to assemble, but they look impressive enough to wow adults too. Plus, they bring together Mediterranean freshness with a spooky presentation. Whether you’re hosting a haunted house dinner or sending a platter to school, these bites are bound to be a hit.
So, let’s get messy in the kitchen and make some edible eyeballs together!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 20 spooky bites:
- 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- 20 cherry tomatoes, firm and ripe
- 10 black olives, halved (for pupils)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or reduction)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 20 small skewers or toothpicks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes and Olives
Wash your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry. Slice the black olives in half — these will be your “pupils.”
Step 2: Assemble the Eyeballs
Take a mozzarella ball and gently press half an olive on top so it sticks like a “pupil.” Then, skewer a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and the mozzarella eyeball on a toothpick.
Step 3: Drizzle and Season
Place your skewers on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
These Skewered Eyeball Caprese Bites are the ultimate spooky snack for Halloween parties. Serve them on a black tray surrounded by fake cobwebs, or add them to a grazing board with cheese, crackers, and spooky-themed dips. Kids love them because they look creepy but taste fresh and mild. Adults will appreciate the classic Caprese flavors paired with Halloween creativity.
You can also prep them ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving. Just wait to drizzle the glaze until right before your guests arrive to keep everything fresh and glossy.
Conclusion
Halloween is one of those times when food can be both fun and delicious, and these Skewered Eyeball Caprese Bites prove just that. They’re fresh, flavorful, and spooky enough to make everyone smile (and maybe squeal a little). I love how something so simple can become the centerpiece of a party.
Cooking has always been about more than just eating for me it’s about creating memories, laughing together, and sometimes getting a little messy. Whether you’re hosting a big Halloween bash or just making snacks for your kids, these eyeball bites are a playful way to celebrate.
So grab your mozzarella, tomatoes, and olives, and let’s keep the tradition of sharing food and spooky fun alive.
Short Version
Hi, I’m Inaya from Crete, and here’s a spooky yet delicious recipe: Skewered Eyeball Caprese Bites! Mozzarella balls become creepy eyeballs when topped with black olive “pupils,” paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze ties it all together for a fun Halloween appetizer. These bites are quick to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for parties. Serve them on a spooky platter with cobwebs and mini pumpkins for extra flair. Simple, tasty, and festive they’ll be the hit of your Halloween celebration!