Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Seasoning Ideas and How to Make Them
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are the perfect fall-inspired snack or appetizer recipe to have on hand. Learn how to roast pumpkin seeds this fall and savor the flavor of the season. These roasted pumpkin seeds seasoning ideas are perfect to tempt your taste buds all season long!
Carving pumpkins is definitely on my autumn bucket list every year. Not only is it fun to get creative, but you have to admit, even as an adult, it’s fun to play in the ooey-gooey centers of a pumpkin. I also love the taste of roasted pumpkin seeds, so for me, carving the pumpkin is only half the fun. Roasted pumpkin seeds are fairly easy and you can flavor them in so many ways since they have a rather bland taste, to begin with. Here are my tips for roasting pumpkin seeds and some different ways to season them!
How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds
First, you want to make sure you get as much as the pumpkin goop off as you can. I like to do this by placing the pumpkin seeds in a strainer (after I have taken off as much as I can with my hands) and run it under some water while removing more of the pumpkin goop from them. This can be quite time-consuming, but this seems to be the easiest way.
To ensure even roasting, you will need to boil them for a little while in some salted water. Most pumpkin types will cook at a different rate than the outside shell because the inside of the seed is moist and the shell is harder. If you skip this step, it could cause your roasted pumpkin seeds to not roast properly. It won’t take long, but it is a step you don’t want to miss. Just place your seeds in the boiling water for about 8-10 minutes and add a bit of salt.
After you boil your seeds, drain off the water and dry them on paper towels, lightly. Place them on a cookie sheet, in a single layer and season them however you like. Roast at 325 for 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as they will roast pretty quickly. There isn’t a need to flip them, but you can if you desire.
Now that you know how to roast pumpkin seeds, let’s talk about the fun part – the seasoning!
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Seasoning Ideas
Pumpkin seeds can be any flavor that you like, from savory to sweet. Here are some suggestions for making your pumpkin seeds rock stars! For all of these flavors, I like to add them about halfway through the roasting process and melt a little butter to coat them very lightly so the seasonings stick well.
Fall Inspired Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Season them with cinnamon, sugar and a little nutmeg for a delicious pumpkin pie like taste.
Savory Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Try curry, turmeric and onion powder for a great savory taste
Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
If you like things hot, try chili powder, cayenne, and onion salt.
Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
If you like dill pickles, add some dried dill weed, black peppercorn, and garlic salt.
Sweet Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
If you are feeling adventurous, sprinkle a little brown sugar and cocoa powder on them and enjoy.
When they are cooled, I store them in mason jars and they keep for several days.
Keep in mind that different types of pumpkins have slightly different tastes, so adjust your time accordingly. This roasted pumpkin seed recipe and roasting time are designed for the traditional carving pumpkin.
I think roasting the seeds is the best part of Halloween