There’s something wonderfully fun about bringing a little spooky flair to the dinner table, and this Eyeball Pasta Salad is the perfect way to do it. With tender pasta, fresh veggies, and mozzarella “eyeballs” peeking up from the bowl, this dish is as festive as it is delicious. It’s lighthearted, tasty, and just creepy enough to delight kids and adults alike—perfect for Halloween parties, themed dinners, or simply when you want to add a playful twist to a family meal.
Even better? It comes together easily with simple pantry ingredients, making it beginner-friendly while still impressing guests with its creative presentation.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta Salad | 20 minutes | 10 minutes | 6 | ~320 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne works best)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine size)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the eyeballs:
- Sliced black olives (for pupils)
- Ketchup or hot sauce (optional, for “bloody” detail)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- Prepare the veggies. Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and parsley. Place into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta salad. Add cooked pasta to the veggie bowl. Pour in dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Assemble the eyeballs. Place mozzarella balls on top of the salad. Gently press an olive slice into each to create a “pupil.” For extra spook factor, drizzle a bit of ketchup or hot sauce around the mozzarella to look like “veins.”
- Chill and serve. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Tip: Assemble the mozzarella eyeballs just before serving to keep them looking fresh and creepy!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store mozzarella separately if you want to maintain the “eyeball” look.
- Balance the dressing: Taste before serving—add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of sugar if you prefer it milder.
- Kid-friendly: Let little helpers decorate the “eyeballs”—it’s a fun family activity!
Recipe Variations
- Protein Boost: Add diced grilled chicken, salami, or pepperoni slices for a heartier salad.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a teaspoon of chili flakes or use spicy Italian dressing.
- Lighter Version: Swap mozzarella for light mozzarella or use Greek yogurt-based dressing instead of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a clear glass bowl so the eyeballs peek out dramatically.
- Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete spooky dinner spread.
- Great as a Halloween party side dish or centerpiece.
Conclusion
This Eyeball Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s an edible decoration that brings laughter and fun to the table. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or just want to surprise the kids with a spooky dinner twist, this recipe is easy, playful, and delicious. So grab your pasta, roll those mozzarella eyeballs, and enjoy the creepy, cozy fun with loved ones!