I absolutely love making spiced pumpkin seeds, and trust me, they’re super easy and fun! First, you’ll want to extract seeds from a carved pumpkin, rinse, and dry them. Then, toss them in olive oil, kosher salt, and your chosen spices like cinnamon or cayenne. Spread them on a baking sheet, roast at 350°F for about 35 minutes, and voilà! You’ve got a delicious snack. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for sprinkling on salads or soups. Plus, these little seeds pack great nutrition! Stick around, and I’ll share more ideas on how to enjoy them in different dishes!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When you try this spiced pumpkin seeds recipe, you’ll discover just how versatile it can be.
You can enjoy these incredible snacks by:
- Roasting pumpkin seeds for that perfect crunch.
- Using different seasoning options like smoked paprika or cayenne.
- Basking in their nutrient-rich benefits.
- Storing them in an airtight container for a week of tasty freedom.
Who knew healthy could be this delicious?
Spiced Pumpkin Seeds
Course: SnacksCuisine: American4
servings10
minutes35
minutes180
kcalLooking for a delicious and nutritious snack this fall? Spiced pumpkin seeds are the perfect crunchy treat, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Ingredients
1 cup pumpkin seeds (extracted from a carved pumpkin)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt (to taste)
Chosen spices (e.g., cinnamon, cumin, cayenne)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully extract the seeds from a carved pumpkin, removing any remaining membranes, then rinse and dry them thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cleaned seeds with olive oil, kosher salt, and your selected spices until evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake the seeds for 20 minutes, tossing them halfway through for even cooking.
- After 20 minutes, remove from the oven and add more oil and spices if desired before returning them to roast for an additional 15 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
- Let the seeds cool slightly and stir them during cooling to prevent sticking and promote crunchiness.
Notes
- For ideal freshness, store your spiced pumpkin seeds in an airtight container for up to one week.
Equipment
To make the most of your spiced pumpkin seeds, having the right equipment can really streamline the process.
Efficient preparation is key, and utilizing meal prep recipes can help you get organized ahead of time.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A baking sheet (with a rim to keep seeds in check)
- Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
- A mixing bowl (to combine seeds with olive oil)
- Oven mitts (to keep your hands safe)
Let’s get cooking!
What to Serve With This Recipe
Now that we’ve made our spiced pumpkin seeds, I’m excited to share some fun ways to enjoy them! These seeds can add a delightful crunch and nutrition to dishes, making them a versatile ingredient for your meals.
You can sprinkle them on salads for that perfect crunch, toss them on a charcuterie board with cheeses, or even mix them into a cozy bowl of soup.
For an added layer of flavor, consider pairing them with dishes like Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, which enhances the overall taste experience.
Trust me, once you start experimenting with these tasty seeds, you’ll find they fit perfectly into all sorts of meals and snacks!
Complementary Dishes and Pairings
Pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch to various dishes, making them a versatile ingredient in your culinary repertoire.
I love sprinkling spiced pumpkin seeds on creamy soups like butternut squash. They’re great in salads too, providing a nutty lift.
They shine on cheese boards and add a tasty crunch to avocado toast, transforming any meal into something special.
Give them a try!
Snack Ideas for Sharing
Often, I find that spiced pumpkin seeds make the perfect snack for gatherings, bringing a unique flair to any spread.
They pair wonderfully with a cheese board, providing that crunchy contrast to creamy cheeses. You can also toss them in salads for added nutritional benefits.
Plus, packaging them as homemade gifts adds a personal touch that’s sure to delight! Enjoy experimenting with these snack ideas!
Creative Serving Suggestions
When it comes to creative serving suggestions, spiced pumpkin seeds offer endless possibilities for elevating your meals and snacks.
I love tossing them onto arugula salads for a crunchy texture or using roasted pumpkin seeds as a garnish on avocado toast.
For a delicious snack, pair them with cheese on a charcuterie board or mix them into granola for a nutritional boost on the go!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Spices Go Best With Pumpkin?
When I think about pumpkin, its culinary uses become endless. Embracing pumpkin spice blends, I love how cinnamon’s warmth and nutmeg’s sweetness juxtapose with earthy cumin and fiery cayenne—perfect for festive recipes and bold flavor pairings!
Do You Have to Let Pumpkin Seeds Dry Before Roasting?
I always let my pumpkin seeds dry a bit before roasting. It enhances flavor infusion and improves the texture. With proper seed preparation and drying techniques, the cooking time shortens, resulting in a perfect crunch.
Are Pumpkin Seeds Inflammatory?
I’ve found pumpkin seeds can help with inflammatory responses thanks to their impressive nutrient profile. Including them in my diet offers health benefits, especially considering their ability to support heart health and lower inflammation naturally.
What Does Pumpkin Seed Do for the Female Body?
You know those tiny powerhouses? Pumpkin seeds offer incredible nutritional benefits, promoting hormonal balance, enhancing skin health, acting as a digestive aid, and boosting immune support. They’re a joyful addition to any woman’s wellness journey!
