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Instructions:
- Lay a slice of salami flat and place a mozzarella ball in the center. Wrap it snugly to form the eyeball base.
- Secure a green olive on top of each mozzarella ball with a dab of cream cheese.
- Use a toothpick dipped in red food coloring (or a small brush with sriracha) to draw squiggly “veins” across the mozzarella.
- Arrange on a serving platter and keep chilled until ready to serve.
Variations
- Spicy bite: Swap the plain salami for spicy pepperoni or soppressata for extra heat.
- Herby version: Add a basil leaf under the mozzarella before wrapping for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Vampire platter: Serve with prosciutto-wrapped breadsticks or crackers to make a complete Halloween antipasto spread.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the salami and simply serve the mozzarella and olive “eyeballs” drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
Tips
- Use smaller mozzarella balls (ciliegine) for the best proportion with the olives.
- To keep the eyeballs neat, pat the mozzarella dry with a paper towel before assembling.
- Prepare up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate until serving.
- For extra drama, drizzle balsamic glaze on the platter so it looks like “blood” pooling around the eyeballs.
