If you have leftover pumpkin from Halloween or Thanksgiving, this Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds recipe is a fantastic way to use it up! I remember my son, Jake, and I would always roast pumpkin seeds together after carving our jack-o’-lanterns. It became our little tradition, and these savory finger foods were always a hit.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They’re spicy and flavorful, perfect for snacking.
- Using leftover pumpkin makes this recipe eco-friendly.
- They’re easy to make and a fun activity for the family.
Pure Comfort
These Cajun Pumpkin Seeds are not just a snack; they’re a cozy reminder of family traditions and the joy of cooking together. Plus, they pack a punch of flavor that keeps you coming back for more!
What You Need
- 1 cup 1 cup pumpkin seeds (raw) – Make sure they’re rinsed and dried.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can substitute with coconut oil for a different flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Cajun seasoning – Feel free to adjust for more or less spice.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Adds great flavor; can replace with onion powder.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp black pepper – For a little kick.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare the seeds in advance and store them.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This will help the pumpkin seeds roast evenly and become nice and crunchy. You want to get that oven nice and hot before adding the seeds.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds and olive oil. Stir them well until all the seeds are coated. You should see a nice shine on the seeds, which means they are ready for seasoning.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together until the seeds are evenly coated with the spices. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen and get everyone excited.
- Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; this helps them roast evenly. You want them to be golden and crispy, not soggy.
- Roast the seeds in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they are done when they turn a lovely golden brown and smell amazing.
- Remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Make It Perfect
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
- Make sure to rinse and dry the pumpkin seeds thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Mix It Up
- Try adding different spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for a unique twist.
- For a sweet version, toss the seeds with cinnamon and sugar instead.
Perfect Partners
- These Cajun Pumpkin Seeds pair wonderfully with a cold drink or as a topping for salads.
- Serve them alongside your favorite dips for a fun snack platter.
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FAQs
Can I make these Cajun Pumpkin Seeds ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast them and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
How should I store leftover pumpkin seeds?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch.
Can I freeze roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.
What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
You can use Creole seasoning or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
What’s the best way to enjoy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds?
They are delicious on their own, but you can also sprinkle them on salads or mix them into trail mix for a tasty snack.
Conclusion
These Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds are a delightful way to enjoy leftover pumpkin and create a savory snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re munching on them during a movie night or packing them for lunch, they’re sure to be a hit. So gather your family, get roasting, and enjoy this delicious pumpkin treat!
Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds The Ultimate Savory Snack Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
Main
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds raw, rinsed and dried
- 2 tbsp olive oil can substitute with coconut oil
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning adjust for spice preference
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder can replace with onion powder
- 0.5 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.25 tsp black pepper for a little kick
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even roasting and crunchiness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds and olive oil until the seeds are coated and shiny.
- Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and toss until seeds are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet without overcrowding.
- Roast the seeds in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
- Remove from oven and let the seeds cool for a few minutes to crisp up.