How To Make Perfect Pumpkin Seeds The Easy Way

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the joy of carving pumpkins and savoring the delicious treats that come from them. One of my favorite fall traditions is making perfect pumpkin seeds. Not only are they a delightful snack, but they also make for a great addition to salads or as a crunchy topping for soups. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those seeds you scoop out while carving your Halloween masterpiece! If you’re looking for easy pasta recipes or quick family dinners, these roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect sidekick to your meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick to prepare, making it a great option for 30-minute meals.
• Customizable flavors to suit your taste—add more spices or keep it simple!
• Healthy and nutritious, packed with protein and fiber.
• Perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding crunch to your favorite dishes.
• Great way to involve the family in the kitchen—kids love helping to scoop and season!

Ingredients

To make these delicious pumpkin seeds, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (scooped out from your carved pumpkin)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a little smokey flavor)
• A pinch of black pepper
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (if you want a bit of heat)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Making perfect pumpkin seeds is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds in a colander under cold water to remove leftover pumpkin bits.
3. Dry the seeds really well with a clean towel so they roast evenly.
4. In a bowl, toss the seeds with one tablespoon of olive oil until they’re well coated.
5. Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, a pinch of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
6. Stir the mixture so all the seeds get a little bit of that flavor.
7. Spread the seeds out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they turn golden and crunchy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your pumpkin seeds turn out perfectly every time:

• Experiment with different spices! Try adding some cumin or chili powder for a unique twist.
• Make sure to dry the seeds thoroughly; this helps them get that perfect crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to roast evenly.
• Keep an eye on them towards the end of the roasting time to prevent burning.

How to Serve

These roasted pumpkin seeds are incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Enjoy them as a healthy snack on their own.
• Sprinkle them over salads for added crunch and nutrition.
• Use them as a topping for soups, especially creamy garlic pasta or other fall-inspired dishes.
• Mix them into trail mix for a delightful snack on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare these pumpkin seeds ahead of time, you can roast them and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also make a great addition to your weeknight dinner ideas! Just remember to keep them away from moisture to maintain their crunchiness.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those pumpkin seeds and let’s get roasting! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out my Garlic Butter Beef Bites or try a quick Beef Stir Fry for your next 30-minute meal. Happy cooking!