These fun Eyeball Caprese Skewers are a playful twist on a classic! With juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil, they look like little eyes that are ready to impress.
Perfect for parties or Halloween, they’re super easy to assemble. Just skewer the ingredients and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Who knew eating vegetables could be this much fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: I like using a mix of red and yellow tomatoes for both color and flavor. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes can work, although they may be slightly sweeter.
Fresh Mozzarella (Bocconcini): These small cheese balls add creaminess. If you’re vegan, try using dairy-free cheese or marinated tofu cubes for a similar texture.
Black Olive Slices: They provide the ‘pupil’ look in these skewers. If olives aren’t your thing, you can use a small piece of black bean or even a dot of balsamic reduction instead.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil complements the flavors beautifully. If you can’t find fresh basil, consider using fresh spinach or arugula as an alternative, though the taste will vary.
Cucumber or Green Bell Pepper: These provide the ‘iris’ effect. You can also use zucchini slices or even a slice of green grape for a different look and taste.
How Do You Assemble the Skewers for Maximum Fun?
Assembling these skewers may look tricky, but it’s quite easy! Here’s my step-by-step guide:
- Start with a whole cherry tomato at the bottom. This is the base of your eyeball.
- Next, add a halved cherry tomato, cut side up. This creates the perfect platform for the mozzarella.
- Now, place your mozzarella ball on top of the halved tomato. Make sure it fits snugly!
- For the iris, place a small slice of cucumber or green bell pepper on the cheese.
- Lastly, add a black olive slice on top of the cucumber or pepper to form the pupil.
Repeat until all ingredients are used up, and don’t forget to add basil for garnish! This process is not only fun but also a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen.
Eyeball Caprese Skewers
Ingredients:
- 20 cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow)
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 black olive slices (to create the pupils)
- 20 small basil leaves (for garnish on skewers)
- 20 small slices of cucumber or green bell pepper (for the iris effect)
- 10 wooden skewers (about 6 inches long)
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare. The assembly is quick, and once done, you can serve them right away or chill them for a bit to let the flavors meld. Easy and entertaining!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice each cherry tomato in half horizontally to create a top and bottom for the ‘eyeballs.’ Drain the mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and begin threading the ingredients. Start with one whole cherry tomato as the base. Then, add a halved cherry tomato with the cut side facing up. On top of the halved tomato, put a mozzarella ball. This will resemble the ‘eyeball’ part!
3. Add the Iris and Pupil:
Next, place a small slice of cucumber or green bell pepper on top of the mozzarella to create the iris. Follow that by adding a black olive slice right in the center of the cucumber or bell pepper slice to represent the pupil.
4. Incorporate Fresh Basil:
To bring in a pop of color, add a small fresh basil leaf somewhere on the skewer, either under or nestled between the tomatoes.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once all the ingredients are threaded onto the skewer, lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the assembled skewers. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze over them for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful glossy finish.
6. Serve:
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. These skewers are best served immediately, but you can also chill them for a little while in the fridge before serving. Enjoy these eye-catching, festive skewers at your next party or Halloween gathering!
Have fun making and sharing these unique Eyeball Caprese Skewers!
Can I Use Different Ingredients for the Skewers?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes and mozzarella are classic components, feel free to experiment. You could use mini bell peppers or radishes instead of tomatoes, and for a non-dairy option, try marinated tofu or dairy-free cheese in place of mozzarella.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have any leftover skewers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best freshness. Avoid adding the balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. For best results, add any dressing or glaze just before serving to maintain the colors and textures.
What Should I Serve With Eyeball Caprese Skewers?
These fun skewers make a great appetizer! Pair them with a variety of dips like hummus or a light vinaigrette, or serve alongside a colorful salad or other finger foods to make a festive spread.
