Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are a simple, versatile treat that’s both nutritious and flavorful. With their crispy, golden texture and lightly seasoned flavor, they make an irresistible snack. You can even sprinkle them over soups and salads to add a crunchy, nutty boost that takes your dishes to the next level.
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The best part? You don't have to let those pumpkin seeds go to waste. Whether you're preparing pumpkins for cooking or seasonal decorations, save the seeds and turn them into a delicious snack. Roasting them is easy, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a healthy option packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
Use the roasted pumpkin seeds in creative ways to enhance your meals. Stir them into smoothies for added texture, bake them into granola bars for a chewy-crunchy combo, or mix them into trail mixes for a nutritious on-the-go treat. They’re also great for garnishing creamy soups, like pumpkin or butternut squash, or tossing over fresh salads for a satisfying crunch.
With just a little effort and a few ingredients, roasted pumpkin seeds turn leftovers into something tasty. It’s a simple way to use every part of the pumpkin!
Explore More Roasted and Baked Vegetables:
- Roasted Butternut Squash
- Roasted Acorn Squash
- Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Roasted Asparagus
- Roasted Green Beans
- Roasted Zucchini
- Roasted Carrots
- Roasted Broccoli
Ingredients and Substitutions Overview
To make roasted pumpkin seeds, you only need a few simple ingredients. Let’s take a look at what they are below.
- Pumpkin Seeds: You can scoop fresh seeds straight from a pumpkin, making use of leftovers from cooking or decorations, or go for store-bought seeds if you're short on time. Fresh seeds may need a good rinse and pat dry before seasoning, while store-bought ones are often ready to use.
- Paprika: This spice adds a mild smoky flavor and a touch of heat that makes the seeds more flavorful. If you love spicy snacks, you can mix in chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Garlic Powder: It gives the seeds a delicious, savory flavor that pairs well with the natural nuttiness of the seeds.
- Black Pepper: A dash of black pepper brings a warm, earthy spice that balances the flavor. For a stronger flavor, you can grind fresh pepper right before using.
- Salt: An essential ingredient to bring out and balance the natural flavors of the seeds.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is key for making the seasonings stick to the seeds and helps them roast evenly to a crispy, golden texture. It also adds a slight fruity flavor that complements the spices. For variation, you can try melted butter or avocado oil.
How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds in Oven?
Roasting pumpkin seeds is simple and easy. All you need to do is mix the ingredients to season the seeds, spread them on a baking tray, and bake until they’re perfectly crispy. That’s it—you’re ready to go! I’ve included step-by-step photos and a video below to guide you visually. Let’s get started and make this super healthy and delicious snack!
Explore More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes:
- Roasted Pumpkin
- Pumpkin Muffins
- Pumpkin Cheesecake
- Pumpkin Bread
- Pumpkin Soup
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Pumpkin Cookies
- Pumpkin Pancakes
- Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Pumpkin Puree
- Pumpkin Dip
- Pumpkin Pie
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pumpkin Seeds, washed and dried thoroughly, or use store brought
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ¾ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Seasoning the Pumpkin Seeds
- Start by placing your thoroughly washed and completely dried pumpkin seeds in a mixing bowl. Drying is key—any leftover moisture can prevent the seasonings from sticking well and may affect the crispiness when roasted. Add olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. The olive oil helps the seasonings stick while adding a light, fruity flavor.
- Mix the seeds well using a spatula or spoon, making sure every seed is evenly coated. Take your time with this step—it helps distribute the flavors evenly. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can also toss them gently with clean hands for better control over coating the seeds.
Roasting the Pumpkin Seeds
- Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single, even layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking and helps them roast evenly.
- Place the tray in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and roast the seeds for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir them halfway through to make sure they brown evenly. Watch closely towards the end, as they can quickly turn from golden brown to overdone. Once the seeds are golden and crisp, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely. Cooling not only makes them crunchier but also helps the flavors settle perfectly.
Serving
- Enjoy these roasted pumpkin seeds as a crunchy snack or sprinkle them over creamy soups and salads for added flavor. For more creative ways to use them, take a look at our "How to Use" section below!
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Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Scoop the Seeds: Start by cutting your pumpkin in half and scooping out the seeds. Don’t worry about the extra pulp sticking to them for now—you’ll clean that up in the next step. If you’re not sure how, check out the step-by-step visuals in our roasted pumpkin recipe post for guidance.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Place the seeds in a colander or strainer and rinse them under running water to remove any leftover pumpkin pulp or fibers. This step helps the seasonings stick better later. Don’t skip it, as clean seeds roast more evenly!
- Dry Completely: Spread the seeds out on a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry. If you have the time, let them air-dry overnight. This extra step removes all the moisture, giving you crispier roasted seeds. Wet seeds tend to steam instead of roast, which can affect their texture.
- Season to Your Liking: Now for the fun part! Toss the seeds with olive oil, then add your favorite seasonings. Stick with classic salt and pepper for a simple flavor, or experiment with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder. If you like a sweet twist, try a pinch of cinnamon and sugar instead!
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting seeds slowly and evenly, helping achieve a crispy texture without burning. A steady, moderate heat brings out the nutty flavor of the seeds while keeping them golden brown.
- Roast in Batches: If you have a large amount of seeds, it’s best to roast them in a single layer on the baking tray. Overcrowding the pan traps steam and prevents proper roasting, leaving some seeds soggy instead of crispy. While it may take a bit longer, the results are worth it!
- Watch for Doneness: Don’t rely solely on the timer—your senses can guide you better. Listen for a gentle popping sound, which indicates the seeds are getting crispy. Also, look for a light golden brown color, a sign that they’re perfectly roasted.
- Cool on the Tray: Once the seeds are out of the oven, let them cool directly on the baking tray. This step is crucial because the residual heat from the tray helps the seeds crisp up further. Avoid transferring them too soon, as this can interrupt the cooling process and result in a less crispy texture.
- Blend into Powder: For a creative twist, blend the roasted seeds into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. This powder can be used as a garnish for creamy soups, adding a rich, nutty flavor. You can also mix it into bread dough or sprinkle it over salads and pasta for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with Add-ons: Take your roasted pumpkin seeds to the next level by mixing them with other ingredients. Combine them with roasted nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to create a trail mix that’s both nutritious and delicious. You can also toss them with toasted coconut flakes or granola for a fun snack or breakfast topping.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer
We're not nutrition experts, and the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Please use it as a guide. For precise details, it's best to consult a professional. To learn more, please view our Detailed Disclaimers.
How to Use Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted pumpkin seeds aren’t just healthy—they’re super versatile too! Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or adding them to your meals, there are plenty of ways to use them. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of these tasty seeds:
- Snacking: Roasted pumpkin seeds are a healthy and tasty snack. You can enjoy them plain or mix them with nuts and dried fruits to make a wholesome trail mix.
- Salad Topper: Add some crunch to your salads with roasted pumpkin seeds. They pair wonderfully with both leafy greens and grain-based salads.
- Soup Garnish: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds over creamy soups like pumpkin or butternut squash. They add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
- Baking Addition: Try adding roasted pumpkin seeds to your baking. They work wonderfully in bread, muffins, cookies, or granola bars, giving them a boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Smoothie Booster: Toss roasted pumpkin seeds into your smoothies for a boost of protein, healthy fats, and nutrients. Use mild or unseasoned seeds to keep the flavors balanced. You can also blend the seeds into a fine powder and mix it into the smoothie for a smoother texture and added nutrition.
- Pesto and Sauces: Swap nuts for roasted pumpkin seeds in your pesto, or mix them into sauces for a creamy, flavorful twist. It’s an easy way to change things up.
- Gourmet Garnish: Use roasted pumpkin seeds as a garnish for rice dishes, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. They make your meals look great and taste even better.
Storage Suggestions
To keep your roasted pumpkin seeds fresh and crunchy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the seeds are completely cooled and thoroughly dried before storing to prevent moisture buildup. Also, make sure the container is completely sealed to keep out air and maintain their crisp texture. They'll stay crunchy for about two weeks.
For longer storage, refrigerate the seeds in a sealed airtight container for up to a month. To keep them even longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure it’s tightly sealed. They’ll stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them come to room temperature for their best flavor and crunch.
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