This Halloween Eyeball Pasta Salad is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s made with colorful pasta, olives, and easy-to-find ingredients that come together quickly.
Your guests will giggle when they see those “eyeballs” staring back at them! I love serving it in a spooky bowl to set the mood. Perfect for a spooky night! 👻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: The colors add festivity! If you can’t find tri-color, any pasta shape will work. Fusilli or penne are good alternatives, just aim for bite-sized pieces.
Canned corn: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and flavor. You can use frozen corn instead; just thaw it beforehand. For a twist, try black beans or peas.
Marinara sauce: This sauce provides a vibrant red base. If you want a lighter option, use a simple olive oil and garlic dressing. Homemade sauce works too if you have the time!
mozzarella balls: I love using fresh mozzarella for that creamy texture. If you’re vegan, you can opt for plant-based cheese balls or alternatively cube firm tofu.
Black olives: These create the eerie “pupil” effect! If you don’t like olives, consider using cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes cut in halves as a substitute.
How Do I Get The Eyeballs Just Right?
Creating the scary “eyeballs” is part of the fun! The key is to use the mozzarella and olives effectively:
- Slice each black olive in half to reveal the inside which will act as the “pupil.”
- Make sure the mozzarella balls are at room temperature, as they will be easier to work with.
- To attach the olive to the mozzarella, press it gently into the cheese; it should stick without any need for extra ingredients!
Arrange them strategically on your pasta salad for the most spooky effect. Enjoy the fun of assembling them! It’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen too!
Halloween Eyeball Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta (red, green, and plain)
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1½ cups marinara or pasta sauce
For the “Eyeballs”:
- 20 large mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- 20 black olives, pitted
- Extra black olives for garnish (optional)
For Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun Halloween salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the fridge, making it a quick and festive addition to your party menu!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s nice and al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps stop the cooking process and prevents sticking.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta with the drained corn kernels. This adds a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad.
3. Add the Sauce:
Now, pour in the marinara or pasta sauce. Gently stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the luscious red sauce. It should look vibrant and delicious!
4. Create the Eyeballs:
It’s eyeball time! Slice each black olive in half or into small rings to create the “pupil.” Then, take a mozzarella ball and place one black olive piece on top to mimic an eyeball.
5. Assemble the Salad:
Pile the pasta salad into a large serving bowl, making sure to layer the tri-color pasta to showcase the colors. Next, distribute your mozzarella and olive “eyeballs” evenly on top to make it extra spooky!
6. Final Touch and Chill:
If you want, garnish with whole black olives for an added creepy look. Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and enjoy the deliciously spooky Halloween Eyeball Pasta Salad! Perfect for parties and guaranteed to be a hit!
This visually striking pasta salad packs a fun punch with its colorful pasta and “eyeballs,” making it a fantastic contribution to any Halloween gathering! 🎃👀
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini adds a fun twist, any pasta shape you prefer will work. Just make sure it’s a bite-sized option, like penne or fusilli, for easy serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Add the “eyeballs” right before serving to keep them fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier!
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to substitute the mozzarella and olives with your favorite cheeses or veggies. You can add pepperoni, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes to personalize your salad!