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Are you wondering what to do with the seeds from your Halloween porch display? Learn how to roast pumpkin seeds for a healthy, savory snack!
I think we can all agree, fall is the best season of the year. By the time fall gets here, I’m SO ready for it. For those that don’t know, we’re in the south, so by the time October hits, I’ve been sweating for months already! Those crunchy leaves, cool breezes and pumpkin-spice-everything are always a sign that I can break out my sweaters soon.
As I was carving pumpkins with my nieces and nephews this year, I had a thought- why don’t I teach these kiddos how to actually eat these awesome seeds?! I LOVE pumpkin seeds and, let’s be honest, my nephews will eat anything you put in front of them! So I roasted up some of these awesome seeds and they were a huge hit, so I wanted to share this process with you!
How do you roast Pumpkin Seeds?
Pumpkin seeds are one of the best things about carving pumpkins! These crunchy little gems are perfect when roasted and can be prepared so many ways! Follow these easy steps to make the best roasted pumpkin seeds!
- Cut into the top of the pumpkin around the stem and remove the top.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove all of the pulp from the inside of the pumpkin, including the seeds. Place in a large bowl. You will likely be able to separate the pumpkin pulp from the seeds fairly easily.
- Add the pumpkin seeds to a colander and rinse with cold water. This will help shake loose any of the other pumpkin pieces from the seeds.
- Bring about 3 cups of fresh water to boiling, add 2 teaspoons salt. Add the pumpkin seeds and boil 5-10 minutes. This step helps to completely clean the seeds and helps add flavor to the seeds.
- Next, drain the seeds and place in between two clean dish towels. Dry well and add to a clean bowl.
- Add the oil and spices, toss and roast at 350 degrees F for 15-25 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on how big, how dry or how roasted you like your seeds. Watch closely and remove when the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
Can you roast the seeds from mini pumpkins?
Yes! You certainly can roast small pumpkin seeds. Follow the same steps for a large pumpkin. The only difference is the seeds will be smaller. They will still have great flavor and roast perfectly!
Are pumpkin seeds healthy?
Yes! Pumpkin seeds are such a great healthy snack. They are high in healthy fats, zinc and magnesium. They also pack a punch with protein, antioxidants and fiber! They are great roasted for a salty snack, or add the perfect crunch to grain free granola recipes or fruit and yogurt parfaits.
A great fall activity for kids!
This is such a fun fall exercise for you and your kiddos! My whole family got involved in this, whether it was carving the pumpkin, washing the seeds, helping me roast them and of course, eating them! Using the seeds from the pumpkin is also a great to teach your kids about using all the different parts of food- I found this to be the perfect segway into giving a mini-lesson about sustainability!
Can you add different flavors to pumpkin seeds?
Yes! There are lots of different flavor varieties you can add to spice up your pumpkin seeds. Here are some options:
- Cinnamon: a lovely balance of sweet and salty! Add cinnamon, brown sugar and a pinch of salt.
- Barbecue: use your favorite BBQ rub to season pumpkin seeds.
- Chili: chili powder, cumin and salt make a great savory snack.
- Ranch: a packet or dry ranch seasoning is a quick and easy idea.
- Taco: store bought or homemade taco seasoning is a great option.
Other Fall Recipes
How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds (healthy + easy snack!)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds
- 2 teaspoons oil, olive, canola, or coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons worcestershire
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Instructions
- Cut into the top of the pumpkin around the stem and remove the top. Use a slotted spoon to remove all of the pulp from the inside of the pumpkin, including the seeds.
- Place in a large bowl. You will likely be able to separate the pumpkin pulp from the seeds fairly easily.
Add the pumpkin seeds to a colander and rinse with cold water. This will help shake loose any of the other pumpkin pieces from the seeds. - Bring about 3 cups of fresh water to boiling, add 2 teaspoons salt. Add the pumpkin seeds and boil 5-10 minutes. This step helps to completely clean the seeds and helps add flavor to the seeds.
- Next, drain the seeds and place in between two clean dish towels. Dry well and add to a clean bowl.
- Add the oil and spices, toss and roast at 350 degrees F for 15-25 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on how big, how dry or how roasted you like your seeds. Watch closely and remove when the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
