Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted pumpkin seeds are a crunchy, satisfying snack that’s both healthy and delicious. When made from sugar pumpkins, these seeds turn out crispy and flavorful, offering a perfect balance of savory seasoning and natural nuttiness. Coated in a little avocado or melted coconut oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, these roasted seeds are an ideal snack for any time of day. You can even experiment with spices like shawarma or curry powder for a unique twist. This recipe is simple to make and a great way to use the seeds from your pumpkin while also adding a tasty, nutritious treat to your snack repertoire.

Ingredients

• ~1 cup pumpkin seeds from 1 sugar (pie) pumpkin (sugar pumpkins are best for yielding the crispiest roasted pumpkin seeds)
• 1 Tbsp avocado or melted coconut oil
• 1 healthy pinch sea salt
• Seasonings (such as Shawarma or Curry Powder, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. If you haven’t already, scoop the pumpkin seeds from the pumpkin. Rinse them under cold water to remove any pumpkin pulp and strands.
3. Pat the seeds dry with a towel. The drier the seeds, the crispier they’ll be when roasted.
4. In a mixing bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with the avocado or coconut oil until they are evenly coated.
5. Add a healthy pinch of sea salt and any other desired seasonings, like shawarma or curry powder, and toss to coat the seeds in the seasoning mix.
6. Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring the seeds halfway through to ensure even roasting.
8. Once the seeds are golden brown and crispy, remove from the oven and let them cool before enjoying.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Pumpkin Seeds: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Savory Seeds: Combine cinnamon, nutmeg, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet version of roasted pumpkin seeds.
• Herb-Infused Seeds: Sprinkle dried rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, herbaceous twist on the classic flavor.
• Cheesy Pumpkin Seeds: Add nutritional yeast or grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the roasted pumpkin seeds cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Reheating: To re-crisp the seeds, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use pumpkin seeds from other types of pumpkins?

Yes, you can use seeds from other pumpkins, but sugar pumpkins are best known for their smaller, more tender seeds, which tend to crisp up more easily.

2. Do I need to peel the pumpkin seeds?

No, the seeds are roasted with their shell on, which adds to the crunch and texture. Just make sure they are rinsed and dried before roasting.

3. Can I roast the seeds without oil?

While oil helps the seasonings stick and gives the seeds a crispy texture, you can skip the oil if you want a lighter version. Just be sure to check the seeds as they roast to ensure they don’t burn.

4. How can I make these pumpkin seeds more flavorful?

You can add different spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even some sweeteners like honey or brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I store leftover roasted pumpkin seeds?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

6. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.

7. How do I know when the pumpkin seeds are done roasting?

The seeds should turn golden brown and become crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning.

8. Can I use coconut oil instead of avocado oil?

Yes, coconut oil works just as well and will add a subtle coconut flavor to the seeds.

9. Can I use pre-shelled pumpkin seeds for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh pumpkin seeds, especially from sugar pumpkins, tend to have a better texture and flavor. If you use pre-shelled seeds, adjust the cooking time as they may roast faster.

10. Can I add more seasonings to the pumpkin seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can try adding cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, or even a bit of brown sugar for a sweet-savory flavor combination.

Conclusion

Roasted pumpkin seeds are an easy, nutritious snack that can be customized with a variety of seasonings. By using sugar pumpkins, you’ll get crispy, tender seeds perfect for snacking or topping on salads and soups. This simple recipe allows you to experiment with different flavors, from savory shawarma to smoky curry powder, and is a great way to make use of every part of the pumpkin. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious, homemade snack that’s both healthy and satisfying.

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