Description
These Salami Mozzarella Eyeballs are a fun and spooky appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining creamy fresh mozzarella with flavorful salami slices and accented with black olive ‘iris’ and cucumber bases, these no-cook savory bites are easy to assemble and sure to impress your guests with their playful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Meats
- 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 4 ounces of salami, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon of cream cheese or goat cheese (optional for a filling)
Produce
- 1 small cucumber
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 16 black olive slices
Assembly
- Toothpicks or skewers for assembly
Instructions
- Prepare the mozzarella: Begin by draining the mozzarella balls from their liquid and patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps the salami adhere better when wrapping.
- Cut the salami circles: Lay the salami slices on a cutting board and cut them into circles slightly larger than the mozzarella balls. Use a cookie cutter or a round knife for accuracy.
- Add optional filling: Optionally, spread a small dollop of cream cheese or goat cheese in the center of each mozzarella ball to add an extra creamy dimension before wrapping.
- Wrap the mozzarella with salami: Place each mozzarella ball in the center of a salami circle, gently fold the salami around it to create the “eyeball” effect, and secure it with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat for all mozzarella balls.
- Attach the olive iris: Place a black olive slice on top of each salami-wrapped mozzarella ball to resemble the iris of an eyeball. Optionally, cut the olives in half for a more dramatic look.
- Prepare the cucumber bases: Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, then cut each round in half to form a stable base for the eyeballs.
- Assemble on platter: Arrange the cucumber halves on a serving platter and place each salami mozzarella eyeball on top to create an appealing presentation.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley around the platter for added color, freshness, and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Ensure mozzarella balls are well dried to prevent the salami from slipping.
- Use a cookie cutter or any round object slightly bigger than the mozzarella to easily size the salami circles.
- Cream cheese or goat cheese is optional but adds a creamy contrast to the savory salami and mozzarella.
- The cucumber base adds freshness and a crisp texture complementing the rich ingredients.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated, but assemble olives last to prevent them from drying out.
- Perfect for Halloween or themed parties as a visually striking appetizer.
