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Halloween Caprese Salad with mozzarella skulls is a spooky twist on a classic appetizer that's easy to make and perfect for parties.
Need something unique, healthy, and low-carb to bring to a Halloween potluck? This spooky Caprese salad with eerie mozzarella skulls is a winner. It's easy to make and has a wow factor that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Yes, you need to invest in a candy mold to make skulls. But you'll be glad you did since you can fill it with white chocolate and top 3-ingredient peanut butter blossoms, too. Trust me, it’s worth it for all the fun Halloween treats you can create.
While a grape tomato caprese salad is a popular side dish, it's easy to turn into a complete meal. Spoon it over baked lemon pepper chicken or toss it with sauteed shrimp, and you'll be well-nourished for a big night of trick-or-treating.
It’s the perfect way to balance out all the candy that’s sure to follow!
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Ingredients and Equipment
Here's what you'll need to make this easy Halloween Caprese salad:
Of special note:
- Fresh mozzarella cheese - Buy pearls or tear other forms into small ½ inch pieces. Drain and pat dry.
- Balsamic glaze - Buy it at the grocery store or see the notes to prepare a homemade version from balsamic vinegar.
- Skull candy mold - The one we used is 1.1 x 0.7 x 0.3 inches. It's safe to use in the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher.
When you're in the mood for a summer twist on Caprese salad, make watermelon basil balsamic salad.
Please refer to the recipe card below for the full list of ingredients and detailed instructions.
How to Make Halloween Caprese Salad
Follow these step-by-step pictures to make this festive tomato and mozzarella salad:
Step 1
Prepare the skull candy mold by lightly spritzing and brushing the inside cavities with olive oil.
Step 2
Spread the mozzarella pearls on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave them in 10-15 second bursts until they are pliable and soft. It only took 3-4 times with my microwave.
Step 3
Transfer the softened pearls into the greased skull mold, pressing them into the details of the mold with your fingers or the back of a spoon. One small pearl fits perfectly in the mold I used. If using a larger mold, fill it with pearls to ensure full coverage.
Step 4
Place the skull mold in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm up. Place a greased plate on top to keep it firmly in place. Gently remove the mozzarella skulls from the mold after they have set.
Step 5
Cut tomatoes in half and place on the serving dish. Arrange mozzarella skulls on top of the tomatoes.
Step 6
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. and top with chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy!
Top Tip
If necessary (and using a microwave-safe mold), microwave the filled mold for 10-15 seconds to further soften the cheese and ensure it fully conforms to the mold.
Serving Ideas
Dish out spooky caprese salad in single-serving Halloween-themed cups, so it's easy to grab and go. Another option is to assemble the ingredients onto skewers. Serve it alongside pumpkin deviled eggs!
You can customize the salad by adding ingredients like black olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, toasted pine nuts, or prosciutto.
Storage
Store leftover Halloween Caprese salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. If necessary, sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
If you're making this for a party, make the skulls and prep the glaze beforehand. Assemble before serving.
More Halloween Recipes
Would you like more easy, healthy, carb-conscious recipes?
📋 Recipe
Halloween Caprese Salad with Mozzarella Skulls
Equipment
- Skull Candy Mold This mold is flexible and non-stick. The temperature tolerance ranges from -40 to +446 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used with the oven, freezer, microwave and dishwasher.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese pearls or fresh mozzarella torn into small ½ inch pieces; Drain and pat dry before using.
- 1 pint grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes; sliced in half.
- 2 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze see notes to prepare a homemade glaze
- 8-10 basil leaves cut into thin strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the skull mold by lightly spritzing and brushing it with olive oil.
- Spread the mozzarella pearls on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave them in 10-15 second bursts until they are pliable and soft. It only took 3-4 times with my microwave.
- Transfer the softened pearls into the greased skull mold, pressing them into the details of the mold with your fingers or the back of a spoon. One small pearl fits perfectly in the mold I used. If using a larger mold, fill it with pearls to ensure full coverage.Note: If necessary, and you are using a microwave-safe mold, microwave the filled mold for another 10-15 seconds to further soften the cheese and ensure it fully conforms to the mold.
- Place the skull mold in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm up. Place a greased plate on top to keep firmly in place. Gently remove the mozzarella skulls from the mold after they have set.
- Cut tomatoes in half and place on the serving dish. Arrange mozzarella skulls on top of the tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze and top with chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy!
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