Halloween Entertaining, Italian-ish

Ghouls and ghosts (okay, candy) delight the children, while everyone varies on the tolerance scale of all that comes with Halloween; it admittedly is enjoyable to delve into the fun themes of the holiday and makes for easy entertaining.  Italy has increasingly upped the amount of Halloween festivities each year showcasing more American custom through costume parties, storefront decorations, and themed castle/landmark tours.  Traditionally Italians celebrate All Saints Day on November 1, but with Halloween becoming increasingly popular in Italy in turn let us pay homage to pasta, parmesan, and gelato. Incorporate Italian influences by way of food to reignite the sometimes stale themes used in sync with the obvious treats this October 31.  

If it is possible to make trick-or-treating even more of a headliner this Halloween, opt to throw a casual get together before, during, or after the kids rally for candy. This is a great way to steer away from focusing on candy and allots time to enjoy the day with neighbors, family, and friends.  The most exceptional way to do this is balancing the menu with respect to kids and adults.

This fried vermicelli dish cuts like a pie for easy serving, will have guests asking for the recipe, and can be passed off easily to the pickiest of eaters.  

Fried Vermicelli Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray

 Nothing says “kid party” quite like popcorn.  Have bowls of fresh hot-air popped popcorn that is fun for kids and irresistible to adults with an upgraded version. Fry diced pancetta until crisp. Make popcorn. Toss together (some fat included) with generous shaves of Italian aged parmesan.  Serve hot. Make copious amounts, it is a sure bet. 

For the piece de resistance, gelato!  The kids will certainly be happy to hang in costume with friends while participating in a create-your-own sundae bar.  Serve gelato in bowls made from small pumpkins for extra appeal alongside a toppings bar inclusive of candy favorites and festive sprinkles.  Have options more suited for the adult palate available as well, a bowl of ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and perhaps a bourbon butterscotch sauce. Chances are no one will pass up such a novelty. 

For an easy tutorial on how to make pumpkin bowls be sure to view the steps listed, this prep work should be done in advance in order to leave time for the bowls to cool completely prior to holding gelato.  

Another way to feature gelato at the party, served in flutes with prosecco, an Italian white sparkling wine! For the youngsters pick up the Blood Orange flavor of San Pellegrino Italian soda, it is all natural and delicious and such a thematic color for the holiday. Check a local grocery store, if it does not carry the product ask a manager to order it before Halloween, usually this request can be accommodated and is reason to the vast amount of stores in my proximity having it in abundance. Serve the drink in clear cups set out with paint markers for the kids to decorate (or straight out of the can) with festive straws which can double as a go-home favor.  Salute!

Incorporating the Italian way of living through togetherness and food amongst the typical Halloween party fare will certainly secure attendance at future themed evenings and create memorable moments, fun for all!