Whether you’re throwing a Halloween dinner party or just looking for something fun to serve your family before trick-or-treating, these Halloween dinner ideas will save the night.

From spooky spins on comfort food to crowd-pleasing Halloween main dish ideas for parties, this list has something for everyone, picky kids included.

These Halloween dinner menu ideas are easy to prep, totally delicious, and perfect for creating a festive vibe without the stress.

Whether you’re planning a full Halloween dinner party menu or need a quick Halloween night food idea, you’re in the right place.

Glow‑in‑the‑Dark Thai Noodle Salad Cups

Why It Shines (and Tastes Amazing)

• Not just a gimmick: These noodle cups glow under UV thanks to riboflavin (Vitamin B₂)—a safe, food-fluorescent ingredient. Riboflavin glows without affecting flavor and is considered non-toxic even in high amounts.
• Bite-sized brilliance: Individual cups are clean, convenient, and portable—perfect for a work potluck setting.
• Flavors that wow: A Thai-inspired peanut-lime dressing, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs ensure this dish is as delicious as it is visually striking.

Supplies & Equipment

• Mini black or dark paper cups (2–3 oz size). Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link)
• Rice noodles (vermicelli or glass noodles)
• Vitamin B₂ (riboflavin) tablets. Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link)
• Mixing bowls, pot, strainer
• UV/blacklight lamp (battery-powered for easy setup). Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link).
• Serving tray for presentation

Ingredients (Makes ~12 Cups; Serves 4–6)

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 4–6 Vitamin B₂ tablets (crushed into fine powder)
• 2 cups boiling water + extra for soaking
• Peanut‑Lime Dressing:
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • Water to thin, if needed
• Add-ins:
  • 1 small carrot, julienned
  • ½ cucumber, julienned
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: fresh cilantro or mint leaves
  • Optional: chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Infuse the glow
   Crush the Vitamin B₂ tablets into a powder. Dissolve in 2 cups boiling water until fully dissolved.
2. Cook and glow
   Cook the rice noodles until just tender. Drain and immediately soak them in the riboflavin water so they fluoresce.
3. Prep noodles for salad
   After soaking, rinse noodles briefly in cold water and drain well.
4. Make the dressing
   Whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Thin with a splash of water if needed for drizzling.
5. Assemble the cups
   Gently toss the noodles with dressing and veggies. Spoon into the cups, topping with fresh herbs and peanuts if desired.
6. Serve with style
   Place cups on a dark tray. At the potluck venue, switch on the UV lamp—watch the noodles glow magically!

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Pre-infuse noodles (up to 4 hours ahead)—keep chilled in the riboflavin water, then rinse before assembling.
• Transport smart—store dressing and noodles separately to prevent sogginess. Assemble shortly before serving.
• UV play—use a compact, battery-powered UV lamp. Subtle lighting gives maximum effect with minimal fuss.