Imagine serving a platter full of savory little “eyeballs” that are as hilarious as they are delicious. These Skewered Salami Eyeballs are my go-to appetizer when I want to impress my guests with something quirky, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. They combine smoky slices of salami, creamy cheese, and tangy green olives, all skewered together and grilled to perfection. Whether it’s Halloween or just a fun gathering, this spooky treat never fails to steal the spotlight.

Skewered Salami Eyeballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together humor and flavor in one creative bite. It’s not just about the taste—although that’s fantastic—but also about the visual fun and the reactions from guests.

It’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
The flavor combo of savory salami, creamy cheese, and briny olives is addictive
They’re crowd-pleasers and conversation starters at any party
I can easily double or triple the recipe depending on how many people I’m serving
They work just as well for Halloween as they do for any casual get-together

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salami slices
green olives (pitted and preferably stuffed with garlic or pimentos)
mozzarella cheese (cut into cubes)
wooden or metal skewers
mustard or your favorite dipping sauce

Directions

I always start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill
Then I thread on a slice of salami, a green olive, and another slice of salami—stacking them like a sandwich
If I want extra richness, I slide in a cube of mozzarella between the salami layers
I preheat the grill to medium heat and place the skewers on, grilling each side for 5–7 minutes until slightly charred
Once they’re hot and melty, I serve them immediately with a bowl of mustard for dipping

These skewers are best enjoyed warm and fresh off the grill, when the cheese is soft and the salami has that perfect crisp edge.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, or 8 skewers in total. I usually count on about 2 skewers per person if I’m serving other appetizers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I like to switch things up sometimes depending on what I have in the fridge:

Use pepperoni in place of salami for a different flavor profile
Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a little heat
Add cherry tomatoes or pickles between the layers for added bite
Use mini skewers or toothpicks to create bite-sized versions for cocktail parties

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers (which rarely happens), I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I pop them in the oven at a low temperature—around 300°F—for about 5–7 minutes. I avoid the microwave since it tends to make the cheese rubbery and the salami chewy.

FAQs

How do I make skewered salami eyeballs spicy?

I sometimes use spicy salami or add a slice of jalapeño between the layers. Pepper jack cheese is also a great way to bring the heat.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! I often use cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack depending on what I’m in the mood for. The creamier the cheese, the better the texture.

What dipping sauces pair well with these eyeballs?

Besides mustard, I’ve enjoyed them with spicy aioli, ranch, or a balsamic glaze. It really depends on the vibe of the gathering.

Can I make them ahead of time?

I prefer to assemble them ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, then grill them fresh right before serving. That way, they’re warm and melty when served.

Can I bake them instead of grilling?

Yes, when I don’t want to fire up the grill, I bake them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out just as delicious.

Conclusion

Skewered Salami Eyeballs are the kind of dish that sparks joy and gets people talking. They’re simple, savory, and loaded with flavor. Whether I’m planning a themed party or just want to make something memorable, these little bites always deliver. I love how quick they are to prepare and how versatile they can be—there’s always room to get creative. If I were you, I’d make a double batch—you’ll thank me later.