Roasting pumpkin seeds is a fall tradition that brings back fond memories of carving pumpkins and enjoying the seeds as a healthy snack. This pumpkin seed recipe takes that tradition to the next level by adding a flavorful twist with spices like garlic powder and paprika.
Not only are these roasted pumpkin seeds incredibly tasty, but they’re also packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and magnesium. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a crunchy topping for your salads and soups, these oven-roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect choice.
Pumpkin seed recipe
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177ºC).
- Wash the pumpkin seeds in a colander to remove any pulp and fibers. Thoroughly dry them with a towel.
- In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and black pepper.
- Lightly grease a sheet pan with olive oil. Evenly spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds on the sheet pan.
- Bake until the seeds are toasted and crunchy, about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes for even toasting.
- Transfer the roasted pumpkin seeds to a bowl to cool down.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25
What do you do with pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can roast them for a crunchy snack, add them to salads for extra texture, or even blend them into smoothies for a nutritional boost. They can also be used as a garnish for soups and dips like hummus. The possibilities are endless!
What is the best way to eat pumpkin seeds?
The best way to eat pumpkin seeds depends on your personal preference. However, roasting them is a popular and delicious option. Roasted pumpkin seeds can be seasoned with various spices, both sweet and savory, to suit your taste. They can be eaten on their own or added to other dishes. You can also eat them raw, but roasting enhances their flavor and makes them more digestible.
How do you prepare pumpkin seeds for eating?
- Cleaning: After scooping the seeds out of the pumpkin, place them in a bowl of cold water. Use your hands to remove any clinging pulp. The seeds will float, making it easy to scoop them out and rinse them.
- Drying: Pat the seeds dry with paper towels or leave them to air dry overnight. The drier the seeds, the crispier they will be when roasted.
- Seasoning and Oil: Place the dried seeds on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season as desired. Common seasonings include kosher salt, garlic powder, or even cinnamon for a sweet version.
- Roasting: Preheat the oven to 300°F and roast the seeds for about 30 to 45 minutes, tossing them every 10 minutes to ensure even roasting.
Do you dry pumpkin seeds before roasting them?
Yes, drying the pumpkin seeds before roasting them is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can pat them dry with paper towels or leave them to air dry overnight. If the seeds are not adequately dried, they will steam rather than roast, resulting in a less crispy snack.
