Description
A fun and festive take on classic Caprese salad, featuring skull-shaped mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, perfect for Halloween parties.
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) package fresh mozzarella Ciligiene (small balls)
24-32 cherry tomatoes
24-32 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze)
Silicone skull molds (miniature size)
12-16 bamboo skewers
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drain the mozzarella Ciligiene balls thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
Step 2: Lightly brush or spray the cavities of your silicone skull molds with a little olive oil to prevent the cheese from sticking.
Step 3: Place one mozzarella ball into each skull cavity of the mold, ensuring they are evenly nested and fill the space.
Step 4: Bake the mozzarella in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes. This gentle bake will soften the cheese, making it pliable for molding but not fully melted.
Step 5: Carefully remove the molds from the oven. Using a folded paper towel, gently but firmly press the softened mozzarella balls into the skull cavities. This action helps to absorb any remaining moisture and define the skull features.
Step 6: Refrigerate the mozzarella skulls for 10-15 minutes. This allows them to cool and firm up, ensuring they hold their spooky, molded shape.
Step 7: Once chilled, carefully remove the mozzarella skulls from the molds. Thread one mozzarella skull onto a bamboo skewer. Follow with a fresh basil leaf, then a cherry tomato. Repeat this pattern if your skewers are long enough for multiple pieces.
Step 8: Arrange the assembled skewers on a festive serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can also offer balsamic vinegar or glaze on the side for guests to add more.
Notes
For a sweeter, thicker finish, use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar. Ensure mozzarella is well-drained for best molding results. These skewers are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook (with brief oven softening)
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg