If you’re looking for a tasty snack, this Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds recipe is just what you need! My son, Jake, loves helping me scoop out the seeds when we carve pumpkins for Halloween. It’s a fun family tradition, and now we can enjoy a crunchy treat together afterward.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They’re super easy to make.
- You can customize the spice level to your liking.
- They’re a healthy, paleo-friendly snack.
Pure Comfort
These spicy roasted pumpkin seeds are perfect for munching while watching a movie or enjoying a game night with family. They have that satisfying crunch and a kick of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
What You Need
- 1 cup 1 cup pumpkin seeds (raw) – Make sure they are cleaned and dried.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – You can substitute with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp sea salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper – Add more for extra heat.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp garlic powder – This adds a nice savory touch.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F. This temperature will help the seeds roast evenly and get that perfect crunch. As the oven warms up, you can prepare the seeds.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cleaned pumpkin seeds with olive oil, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until all the seeds are evenly coated. The oil should give them a nice sheen and the spices will add flavor.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, so they roast properly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes. Stir the seeds halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Once done, remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool slightly. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. The aroma will be irresistible, so try to resist snacking right away!
- Finally, enjoy your spicy roasted pumpkin seeds as a crunchy paleo snack. They make a great addition to salads or can be enjoyed on their own.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding different spices like paprika or cumin.
- If you like a sweeter version, toss the seeds with a bit of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey before roasting.
Mix It Up
- Try using different nuts or seeds for a mixed snack.
- Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a refreshing dip like guacamole.
- Pair with a cold beverage for a perfect snack.
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FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are in a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for pumpkin seeds?
Sunflower seeds work well as a substitute if you don’t have pumpkin seeds on hand.
How do I know when the seeds are done roasting?
They should be golden brown and crunchy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Conclusion
These Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are a delightful and healthy snack that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them on their own or as a topping, they’re sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and make some today!
Easy Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds for a Crunchy Paleo Snack
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Main
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds raw, cleaned and dried
- 2 tbsp olive oil can substitute with melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp sea salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper add more for extra heat
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder adds a nice savory touch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin seeds, olive oil, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until all seeds are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Remove from the oven and let the seeds cool slightly; they will crisp up as they cool.
- Enjoy your spicy roasted pumpkin seeds as a crunchy paleo snack.