Throw a Pumpkin Carving Party

Don’t wait until the 31st to enjoy Halloween! Here’s a fun event that can be held a few days beforehand and isn’t just for kids. Invite a few families over and host a hearty autumnal supper certain to keep everyone wickedly warm during the outdoor pumpkin carving afterwards.

Setting the Scene

You’ll want to set up a pumpkin carving station for the party, preferably outdoors. (Be sure to let your guests know that part of the party is outdoors so they dress accordingly.) Spread lots of newsprint to cover the table you will be carving at, and place the carving tools down the middle of the table so everyone can share. While this will be an activity supervised by parents, it still makes sense to invest in the safer carving tool sets available at many stores instead of using kitchen knives. Ask each guest to bring a small pumpkin to carve, and be sure to have tea light candles and a long lighter on hand for the party finale.

What to Serve The kids will probably be eating pizza and candy on the 31^st, so this is a great night to serve healthier food that highlights the fall bounty. We’ve included recipes for Butternut Squash Soup, Cheddar and Apple Panini Sandwiches, and Petite Pumpkin Tarts. Bowls of soup might prove too awkward for a party, so instead pour the soup into small mugs—many people will forgo the spoons if it’s presented this way. Also, you can always slice the panini into sandwich “fingers,” which makes a great soup dippers.

Butternut Squash Soup

What You Need:

• 1 butternut squash (about 3 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 teaspoons curry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
• salt and pepper

What You Do: