Ah, the unsung heroes of autumn – Roasted Pumpkin Seeds! As you carve out your spooky jack-o’-lantern or prep that delicious fall pumpkin, don’t toss away the seeds. Instead, embark on a crunchy adventure with this simple and sensational recipe that turns those seeds into a snack worth celebrating. With the perfect blend of spices, these Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are not just a treat, they’re a fall-flavored experience. Let’s dive into the magic of transforming humble seeds into crunchy perfection!
Yield and Total Time: Yield: 1 cup Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds, cleaned and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet twist
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
a. Clean and Rinse: After carving your pumpkin or scooping out the seeds for cooking, separate the seeds from the pumpkin pulp. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any remaining pumpkin bits. Pat them dry with a paper towel – the drier, the crispier!
b. Flavorful Coating: In a bowl, toss the clean and dry pumpkin seeds with olive oil until they glisten. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix, ensuring each seed gets a flavorful coating. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon for a delightful sweet note.
c. Roast to Perfection: Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp. Give them a gentle stir halfway through for even roasting.
d. Cool and Crunch: Once out of the oven, let the roasted pumpkin seeds cool for a few minutes. The aroma will be irresistible, but exercise patience – it’s worth the wait. Feel free to taste one – that satisfying crunch is what you’ve been waiting for!
e. Snack Time: Transfer the cooled pumpkin seeds to a bowl and get ready for snack time excellence. Whether you’re munching on these while watching a movie or sprinkling them on your salad, these roasted pumpkin seeds are a crunchy, flavorful treat.
Summary:
There you have it – Roasted Pumpkin Seeds that are not just a snack, but a celebration of autumn in every bite. With the perfect blend of spices, these crunchy delights are the ultimate way to make the most of pumpkin season. So, next time you’re carving that pumpkin, save those seeds and embark on a flavor journey that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Photo by: smalltownwoman.com