Halloween is just around the corner, and it's time to ditch the conventional candies and bring a taste of Utica, New York, to your trick-or-treaters. If you're a proud Utican and want to showcase your local love, why not consider handing out Utica's signature dishes as Halloween treats? It's a unique and delicious way to celebrate the holiday. Let's explore the delightful world of Utica foods as Halloween treats, including tomato pie, greens, riggies, halfmoons, and pizza.
1. Tomato Pie Treats: A Savory Surprise
Tomato pie is a Utica specialty known for its irresistible combination of crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of grated cheese. For Halloween, you can offer bite-sized tomato pie treats by cutting the pie into mini squares or circles. To add a spooky touch, consider using a cookie cutter in the shape of a pumpkin, bat, or ghost. These savory delights will be a surprising and satisfying change from the usual candy. 
2. Greens Goodies: Healthy Halloween Snacks
Utica greens are a beloved dish in the region, featuring sautéed greens, hot peppers, and cheese. To create a Halloween-themed twist, serve "greens goodies" in mini cups or as bite-sized appetizers. You can use escarole for a healthy alternative and make the dish kid-friendly by reducing the heat. These mini greens cups are not only delicious but also a nutritious treat for the little ghouls and goblins.
3. Riggies Resized: Spooky Riggies Bites
Utica's famous chicken riggies are renowned for their creamy, spicy, and flavorful sauce. For a Halloween celebration, serve "spooky riggies bites" by preparing small pasta portions with a mild sauce. You can add chicken chunks for a protein boost and offer them in tiny containers or as pasta salad on skewers. These miniature riggies will be a hit with trick-or-treaters seeking a delicious and hearty treat.
4. Halfmoon Magic: Bewitching Dessert
Halfmoons are a Utica dessert classic, featuring a chocolate and vanilla frosted cookie. For Halloween, create "bewitching halfmoon cookies" by shaping the frosting into traditional Halloween symbols, like witches' hats, jack-o'-lanterns, or black cats. These adorable, bite-sized delights will bring smiles to the faces of your young Halloween visitors.
5. Pizza Pops: Spooky Slices
Utica is no stranger to delicious pizza, and for Halloween, you can serve "spooky pizza pops." Create mini pizza slices in various flavors, including plain, pepperoni, and veggie. Use cookie cutters to shape the toppings into Halloween-themed images, such as ghosts or bats. These pizza pops are perfect for quick bites between door-knocking adventures.
This Halloween, go beyond the ordinary and offer your trick-or-treaters a taste of Utica's culinary heritage. From savory tomato pie to adorable halfmoon cookies, your Halloween treats will be remembered as some of the most unique and mouthwatering in town. So, embrace the local flavors, celebrate your Utican pride, and make this Halloween a deliciously unforgettable experience for everyone who rings your doorbell. Trick or treat, Utica-style!