Spooky Bites of Delight (Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizer)

Get ready to add a little pizzazz to your Halloween party with these creepy yet delightful Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizers! Imagine serving up a platter of these adorable yet eerie “eyeballs” that combine creamy mozzarella, savory chicken ham, and the briny goodness of olives. These little bites pack a punch of flavor and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Perfectly chilled and artfully arranged, they bring a fun and festive spirit to the table—making your Halloween gathering unforgettable!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs are more than just creepy; they’re an absolute must-try!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and savory chicken ham creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
– Crowd-Pleaser: These little morsels are not only fun to look at but will have your guests coming back for more!
– Flexible & Fast: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a sensational appetizer ready to impress.
– Perfect for Halloween: These spooky snacks will get everyone into the Halloween spirit, making them the perfect addition to your spooky soirée.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these fun Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs is a breeze! You’ll find vibrant flavors and delightful textures that make this dish shine. The fresh mozzarella balls and the rich, syrupy balsamic glaze are true flavor game-changers that will elevate your appetizer experience.

– ¼ Cup olive oil
– 8 basil leaves (fresh)
– Kosher or table salt (as needed)
– 10 Balls fresh mozzarella (bocconcini, ciliegine, “cherry sized”)
– 5 black olives (whole pitted, medium or large)
– ½ Pound chicken ham (sliced thinly)
– 1 ½ Ounces balsamic glaze
– 8 ½ Ounces sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, julienne cut)
– Flake salt (as needed)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of the Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizer is that you can make it your own! Consider these fun and practical variations to shake things up a bit:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the chicken ham for a gluten-free deli meat or use roasted vegetables.
– Add Extra Protein: Throw in some diced salami or pepperoni for an extra savory kick!
– Make it Spicier: Add a slice of pickled jalapeño within the eyeball for a delightful surprise!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with pesto or a zesty Italian vinaigrette instead of balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
– Cheese it Up: Incorporate a mix of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, into the filling for a creamy twist.

How to Make Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizer

Are you ready to get your spooky on? Let’s dive into making these irresistible Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs!

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Oil

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to infuse the oil with the aromatic basil flavor. Sprinkle with kosher salt to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Eyeballs

Grab a fresh mozzarella ball and wrap a slice of chicken ham around it, securing it with a toothpick. This is the base of your eyeball!

Step 3: Add the Eye

Take a black olive and slice it in half. Place one half on top of the mozzarella ball to create the “pupil” of your eyeball.

Step 4: Finish with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Take a piece of sun-dried tomato and carefully place it on the plate, then drizzle with the basil oil and balsamic glaze. These will add a pop of color and extra flavor!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled eyeballs for about 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizer

– Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your mozzarella and olives will elevate the dish. Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
– Prep Ahead: You can prepare the eyeballs a few hours in advance—just keep them chilled until serving.
– Toothpick Timing: Be gentle when skewering the eyeballs to keep everything intact and maintain that adorable appearance!
– Serve Chilled: These appetizers taste best when they are served chilled, so make sure to keep them in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizer

Garnishes

Elevate your spread with some sprigs of fresh basil or a sprinkle of flake salt to add a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these delicious eyeballs with a side of crunchy vegetable sticks and a bowl of zesty ranch dip for the ultimate Halloween snack platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these spooky delights on a spider-web-patterned platter or in individual cups for a fun, festive display that will wow your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze these appetizers, as the texture of the mozzarella and chicken ham will not hold up well post-freezing.

Reheating

These spooky bites are best enjoyed cold. Just take them out of the fridge before serving and enjoy their delightful flavors!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or even a creamy goat cheese for a unique twist.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! However, you can easily add heat with spicy olives or jalapeños if you like a little kick.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply ensure the chicken ham you choose is gluten-free, or opt for a veggie alternative like roasted red peppers.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the eyeballs a few hours ahead of time and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Halloween Antipasto Eyeballs Appetizers are not only delicious but also an absolute showstopper! They’re perfect for Halloween gatherings and will definitely add a fun twist to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and enjoy making these spooky yet scrumptious bites that everyone will adore. Happy Halloween, and may your party be filled with ghoulish delights and great company! 🎃👻