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As autumn rolls around and the days grow cooler, it’s time to celebrate one of the season’s best treasures: pumpkin! After carving your spooky jack-o’-lanterns, don’t toss those seeds aside. Instead, let’s transform them into a crunchy, nutritious snack with this simple yet delicious Roasting Pumpkin Seeds recipe. You’ll find they’re easy to make, healthy, and downright addictive!
Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Seeds:
- Seeds from 1 medium pumpkin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional seasonings (choose your favorites):
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for a sweet version)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
Serving Size
- Serves: 4 (about 1 cup)
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 20–25 minutes
Total Time
- 30–35 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seeds
Start by carefully removing the seeds from your pumpkin. Try to get as many seeds as possible while keeping the stringy pulp to a minimum. Place the seeds in a large bowl of water and swish them around to separate them from the pulp. Rinse the seeds thoroughly in a colander, removing any remaining bits of pumpkin.
2. Dry the Seeds
Pat the seeds dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps them roast to a nice, crunchy texture.
3. Season the Seeds
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil (or melted butter) and salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, add your chosen seasonings to create unique flavor profiles. Mix well to ensure all seeds are coated.
4. Roast the Seeds
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even roasting. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning! You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and fragrant.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Once roasted, remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Enjoy them as a crunchy snack, sprinkle them over salads, or use them to top soups and casseroles.
Why You’ll Love Roasting Pumpkin Seeds
Roasting pumpkin seeds is not only a fantastic way to reduce waste but also an opportunity to create a delicious, healthy snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these little seeds can boost your nutrition while satisfying your snack cravings. Plus, the flavor combinations are endless — sweet, savory, or spicy, you choose!
Pro Tip: Store leftover roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks — if they last that long!
Now that you’ve got this Roasting Pumpkin Seeds recipe under your belt, it’s time to embrace the season and enjoy every crunchy bite. Share these with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself as a well-deserved treat after a day of pumpkin carving!
