Fall is the perfect time to make the most of pumpkins, and one of the best ways to use every part of this seasonal favorite is by roasting pumpkin seeds. Don’t toss out those seeds when you carve pumpkins this year! With just a few simple steps, you can transform them into a delicious and nutritious snack. This easy roasted pumpkin seeds recipe is versatile, crunchy, and packed with flavor. You can even use seeds from other winter squash like butternut or spaghetti squash!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Roasted pumpkin seeds are not only tasty but also full of health benefits. They’re rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a great go-to snack for fall or any time of year. Plus, they’re a zero-waste option, which is always a bonus!
Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
Course: Snacks6
servings105
kcal35
minutesIngredients for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
1 ½ cups pumpkin seeds (or seeds from any winter squash)
2 teaspoons fine sea salt (plus more for seasoning after roasting)
2 teaspoons olive oil (or use melted coconut oil or nut oil like walnut)
2 teaspoons of your favorite spice blend (try pumpkin pie spice, curry powder, harissa, or chili powder for an extra kick)
How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds – Step-by-Step
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- Clean the Seeds: After scooping out the seeds from your pumpkin, place them in a bowl of cold water. Swirl the seeds around with your hands. As the seeds float to the top, remove them, leaving behind most of the stringy pumpkin pulp.
- Simmer in Salted Water: This is the secret step that makes all the difference! Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and stir in 2 teaspoons of salt. Add the mostly clean pumpkin seeds and simmer for 5 minutes. This not only cleans the seeds more thoroughly but also infuses them with salt for better flavor.
- Dry the Seeds: Drain the seeds and give them a final rinse. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Getting them as dry as possible helps them roast evenly and become extra crispy in the oven.
- Season the Seeds: Spread the dried seeds onto your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil (or your chosen oil) and sprinkle your preferred spice blend. Toss everything together so the seeds are evenly coated in oil and spices.
- Roast Until Golden: Spread the seeds into a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 10 to 25 minutes, depending on their size. Stir the seeds halfway through to ensure even roasting. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden and smell wonderfully fragrant.
Tips for Roasting Pumpkin Seeds
- Dry them well: Ensuring your seeds are dry before roasting is key to getting that perfect crunch. Wet seeds will steam instead of roast, leaving you with chewy rather than crispy seeds.
- Experiment with spices: This recipe is versatile! Try different spice combinations to switch things up. From sweet (pumpkin pie spice) to savory (garlic powder, paprika) or spicy (chili powder, cayenne), there’s a flavor for everyone.
Storing Your Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
After the seeds cool completely, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they can last for several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you eat pumpkin seed shells?
Yes! We love the added crunch and fiber from the shells. But if you prefer, you can remove the shells after roasting by cracking them open with your teeth and enjoying the tender seed inside. - Can I use seeds from other squash?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with seeds from other winter squash like butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash. Keep in mind that smaller seeds might roast faster, so check them early to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
Roasted pumpkin seeds are an easy and healthy snack that you can enjoy throughout the fall and winter months. Not only are they tasty, but they also add a festive touch to your seasonal dishes. Whether you’re carving pumpkins for Halloween or making homemade pumpkin puree, don’t let those seeds go to waste. Follow this simple recipe to make the perfect batch of roasted pumpkin seeds every time!
For more delightful options, be sure to check out our Snacks category for a variety of easy-to-make, healthy treats.
