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It’s pumpkin-everything season as soon as October arrives, and pumpkin-enthusiasts across the country show their glee. Orange is the new black, and anything that can hold flavor becomes pumpkinfied.
Here’s a shout out to the original pumpkin season opener — roasted pumpkin seeds! Yes, I’m talking about that time in the late days of summer and early days of fall when your mom brought home that first big pumpkin. And after carving off the top and inhaling — a honestly not so pleasant scent — the quest of scooping out the seeds commences.
The amount of roasted pumpkin seed recipes have risen since my days of just using a dash of salt. So, hold off on throwing out those seeds! Grab a large strainer, and with our triple pumpkin spiced latte nestled in our hand, let’s explore some of the best roasted pumpkin seeds recipes of the season.
How to prepare pumpkin seeds for eating
“Every year I make roasted pumpkin seeds…my mom taught me her recipe,” shared Sabrina Villagran, mom of two, to Mom.com. “My kids love the harvesting process! They enjoy digging into the pumpkins to grab the seeds.”
If roasting pumpkin seeds is not already a family thing in your house, you may want to consider making it a tradition that no one wants to miss. It all starts with gathering the seeds.
Step 1: Make it a family activity. Getting those pumpkin seeds out of the pumpkin and then cleaning them is much more fun when you—momma of one-too-many kids — are not held up in the kitchen doing all of the work on your own. Make this the start of a new family tradition.
Step 2: Don’t forget to laugh! Provide each of your kids a large spoon or ice cream scooper and make it a race of who can scoop out the largest pile of seeds and pulp. The slipperiness of the pulp should spark some dramatic fails and triumphs as your kids hope to win the family competition.
Step 3: Take a break. After rinsing the seeds with cold water in a large colander, towel dry them and leave them out to further dry on a flat baking sheet. The dryer the seed, the more crispy they become. In the meantime, relax with your kids and watch a movie before spicing up those seeds.
What is the benefit of pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds might be your family’s new go-to snack. So, be relieved knowing that the health benefits of the seeds are plentiful.
“A 1-ounce portion of pepitas (roughly 1/4 cup) provides about 150 calories, 15 grams of healthful fat, just a few grams of carbs and an impressive 8 to 10 grams of plant protein,” registered dietitian Cynthia Sass wrote for Chicago Health. She details that pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, antioxidants, and beneficial fats. And, they also help control blood sugar levels and boost our immune systems.
Best recipes for flavored pumpkin seeds
The possibilities are endless when it comes to seasoning pumpkin seeds. The tasty seed can take on so many flavors that any palate will be pleased.
Cinnamon Maple Pumpkin Seeds
Can I just say that maple, cinnamon, and pumpkin are the go to fall flavors. This one will definitely be a tasty snack for those cravings on a crisp morning. Sprinkle a bit on top of your morning bowl of yogurt for an added breakfast treat.
Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
Anything that Martha says, we will do. Satisfy that sweet and spicy yearning with a pumpkin seed recipe by Martha Stewart that combines a multitude of flavors.
Pizza Pumpkin Seeds
Do you want your whole family to get in on a healthier snack? Try this recipe for pizza-inspired roasted pumpkin seeds. The combination is magical, and they’ll surely be a family staple on movie nights.
Masala Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Delight your tastebuds with a full array of luxurious flavors. From turmeric to garam masala, the spread of spices will warm your soul. Place a small handful on top of a hot bowl of pumpkin or butternut squash soup and enjoy the tasty mixture of spices.
Candied Pumpkin Seeds
Um, brown sugar and butter — need I say more? These bliss-filled creations will surely not last the day. So, buy an extra big pumpkin so you and your family can join in.
Mocha Pumpkin Seeds
Yes, I said it. Mocha spiced pumpkin seeds. With a mixture of cocoa, coffee, and sugar, these pumpkin seeds take on an exciting flavor. Add a scoop of them to a hot bowl of oatmeal for a morning burst of energy.
Soy and Furukaki Pumpkin Seeds
Want an original spin on roasted pumpkin seeds? Leave out a bowl of these for your family to snack on, and the touch of saltiness and nuttiness that the soy and furukaki brings will be a welcomed surprise and a crowd pleaser.
*Disclaimer: The advice on Mom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
