Imagine the crisp bite of a pumpkin seed, kissed with spice and roasted to perfection. It's not just a fall treat, but a snack you can enjoy year-round. This Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds recipe is simple yet flavorful, transforming the humble pumpkin seed into a tantalizing snack that's hard to resist. It's time to up your snack game with these deliciously addictive seeds.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are likely already in your pantry, one that you might need to purchase is smoked paprika. It gives a unique smoky flavor that sets these seeds apart. Also, remember when shopping to look for pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) in the snack or health food section. They can also be found with the raw nuts and seeds in larger grocery stores.
Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Ingredients
Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds, or 'pepitas,' are the edible seeds of a pumpkin. They are subtly sweet and nutty in flavor, and roasting them brings out their natural crunch.
Onion powder: Onion powder offers a quick way to add onion flavor without the need to chop and saute onions. It's made from dehydrated, ground onions.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder is a convenient alternative to fresh garlic. It's less potent than fresh garlic but offers a sweeter, milder flavor.
Smoked paprika: Smoked paprika is a Spanish cousin to the more widely used sweet Hungarian paprika. It's made from pimiento peppers that have been dried and smoked over an oak fire, then ground into a fine powder.
Kosher salt: Kosher salt is a coarse-grained salt that's great for cooking because it's easy to handle and measure.
Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper used to prepare spicy dishes. It adds a pungent heat to the seeds.
Ground mustard: Ground mustard, or mustard powder, adds a tangy, mildly spicy flavor to recipes.
Light brown sugar: Light brown sugar has a delicate caramel flavor. It's used to balance the heat in this recipe.
Olive oil spray: Olive oil spray is a convenient way to add a light coating of oil, which helps the spices stick to the seeds and promotes even roasting.
One reader, Avie Addison says:
The spicy roast pumpkin seeds recipe is a game-changer! The perfect blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor with every bite. The seeds turn out crispy and addictive, making it the ultimate guilt-free snack. I can't get enough of these delicious, healthy treats!
Techniques Required for Making Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds
How to prepare the pumpkin seeds: Remove the seeds from the pumpkin and separate them from the stringy pulp. Rinse the seeds in a colander under cold water to remove any remaining pulp.
How to roast the pumpkin seeds: Spread the cleaned seeds on a baking sheet and roast at 300 degrees F for about 10 minutes or until the seeds are dry, tossing halfway through.
How to season the pumpkin seeds: Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Then, toss the seeds with the spice mixture to evenly coat them before roasting.
How to check for doneness: Roast the seeds for 20 to 30 minutes or until they are brown and crunchy, tossing halfway through.
How to finish the pumpkin seeds: Immediately spray more olive oil over the seeds and toss with the remaining spice mixture before serving.
How To Make Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
A fun twist on the old pumpkin seeds, here is roast pumpkin seeds flavored with barbeque spice. Definitely a great snack!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cuppumpkin seeds,raw, unshelled
- 1¼tsponion powder
- 1¼tspgarlic powder
- ½tspsmoked paprika
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼tspcayenne pepper
- ¼tspground mustard
- ¼tsplight brown sugar
- 5squirts olive oil spray
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
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Remove the seeds from the pumpkin and separate them from the stringy pulp and rinse the seeds in a colander under cold water.
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Shake off any excess water, spread the seeds on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes or until seeds are dry, tossing halfway through.
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In another small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt and brown sugar.
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Place the seeds in a medium bowl and lightly spray with oil.
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Add 3/4 of the spice mixture and toss to evenly coat.
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Evenly spread the seeds on a sheet pan covered with parchment and roast for 20 to 30 minutes or until brown and crunchy, tossing half way through.
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Immediately spray more olive oil over the seeds and toss with the remaining spice mixture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 218.95kcal
- Fat: 19.65g
- Saturated Fat: 3.32g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.00g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.19g
- Carbohydrates: 4.61g
- Fiber: 2.17g
- Sugar: 0.65g
- Protein: 9.97g
- Sodium: 87.49mg
- Calcium: 18.23mg
- Potassium: 280.25mg
- Iron: 2.98mg
- Vitamin A: 6.61µg
- Vitamin C: 0.80mg
Essential Technique for Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
To ensure your pumpkin seeds are crispy and not soggy, it's crucial to thoroughly dry them before roasting. After rinsing the seeds, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or let them air dry for a few hours. Additionally, tossing them halfway through the roasting process ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds
Prep ahead: Prepare the pumpkin seeds and spice mixture the night before and store them separately. This will save time when you're ready to roast the seeds.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly separate the pumpkin seeds from the pulp, making the prep process much faster.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch of spicy roast pumpkin seeds and store them in an airtight container for a quick and convenient snack option throughout the week.
Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of the roasting time, allowing you to multitask and attend to other kitchen duties while the seeds are in the oven.
Invest in a good colander: A high-quality colander will make the process of rinsing the pumpkin seeds more efficient, saving you time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped fresh onion: Fresh onion can provide a more pungent and aromatic flavor compared to onion powder, adding a different texture and taste to the recipe.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic will provide a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika and a few drops of liquid smoke: Regular paprika combined with a small amount of liquid smoke can mimic the smoky flavor of smoked paprika.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can provide a similar level of heat and a slightly different flavor profile compared to cayenne pepper.
ground mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor similar to ground mustard, while also providing a creamy texture.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey or maple syrup: Honey or maple syrup can add a natural sweetness similar to light brown sugar, while also imparting a unique flavor to the dish.
olive oil spray - Substitute with regular olive oil: Using regular olive oil instead of olive oil spray will provide the necessary oil for roasting the pumpkin seeds, ensuring they become crispy and flavorful.
Best Ways to Serve Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate the pumpkin seeds: Arrange the roasted pumpkin seeds in a delicate spiral pattern on a sleek, black slate platter to create an eye-catching display.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the dish with vibrant edible flowers such as nasturtiums or marigolds to add a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
Utilize unique serving vessels: Present the spicy roast pumpkin seeds in individual miniature ceramic bowls or copper cups to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Add a sprinkle of smoked sea salt: Just before serving, lightly dust the pumpkin seeds with a pinch of smoked sea salt to enhance the flavor and provide a visually appealing finishing touch.
Include a side of flavored aioli: Serve the spicy roast pumpkin seeds with a side of chipotle-lime aioli in a small, intricately designed ramekin to offer a complementary dipping sauce for an elevated dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly processing pumpkin seeds and creating spice mixtures.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the pumpkin seeds with the spice mixture and olive oil spray. It allows for easy tossing and coating of the seeds.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to roast the pumpkin seeds in the oven. It provides a flat, even surface for the seeds to cook and become crunchy.
- Colander: A colander is used to rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold water, separating them from the stringy pulp. It's essential for cleaning and preparing the seeds before roasting.
- Sheet pan: A sheet pan, also known as a baking tray, is used to spread the coated pumpkin seeds for roasting in the oven. It allows for even heat distribution and easy tossing of the seeds during cooking.
- Parchment: Parchment paper is used to line the sheet pan when roasting the pumpkin seeds. It prevents the seeds from sticking to the pan and makes for easy cleanup.
- Olive oil spray: Olive oil spray is used to lightly coat the pumpkin seeds before roasting. It helps the spice mixture adhere to the seeds and promotes even browning during roasting.
Storing and Freezing Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds
- Let the spicy roast pumpkin seeds cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, place the cooled roasted pumpkin seeds in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To maintain the crunchiness of the roasted pumpkin seeds after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before consuming. If they have lost some of their crunch, you can quickly re-roast them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they become crispy again.
- Avoid storing the spicy pumpkin seeds in a humid environment, as moisture can cause them to become soft and lose their crunch. Always make sure the seeds are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
- If you plan on using the roasted pumpkin seeds as a topping for salads, soups, or yogurt, store them separately and add them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds
The best way to reheat leftover spicy roast pumpkin seeds is to preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the seeds are heated through and crispy again. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Alternatively, you can reheat the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir the seeds constantly to ensure even heating and to prevent burning. This method should take about 3-5 minutes, depending on the amount of seeds you're reheating.
If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave to reheat your leftover spicy pumpkin seeds. Place the seeds in a microwave-safe bowl and heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they're heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the seeds to become chewy or burn.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to let the reheated pumpkin seeds cool for a few minutes before enjoying them, as they can be very hot right out of the oven, skillet, or microwave.
If you find that your reheated spicy pumpkin seeds have lost some of their crunch, you can try placing them under the broiler for a minute or two (watching closely to avoid burning) to crisp them up again.
Interesting Facts About Roasting Pumpkin Seeds
The pumpkin seeds in this recipe are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy and nutritious snack option.
Is Making Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds at Home Cost-Effective?
This spicy roast pumpkin seeds recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, pumpkin seeds, is affordable and readily available. The additional seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika are commonly found in most kitchens, making this recipe budget-friendly. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $5. The flavorful outcome and nutritional value make this recipe a solid 9 out of 10.
Are Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Healthy or Unhealthy?
This spicy roast pumpkin seeds recipe is a relatively healthy snack option. Here's why:
- Pumpkin seeds are nutrient-dense, packed with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and various minerals like zinc, magnesium, and iron
- The recipe uses a minimal amount of added sugar (only 1/4 tsp of brown sugar)
- Olive oil spray is used instead of excessive amounts of oil, reducing the overall fat content
- The spices used, such as onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, add flavor without contributing significant calories or unhealthy ingredients
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of salt used or opt for a low-sodium alternative to decrease the overall sodium content
- Experiment with other spice combinations that don't rely on added sugar, such as a mix of cumin, chili powder, and lime zest for a zesty, sugar-free flavor profile
- Consider using a smaller amount of pumpkin seeds per serving to control portion sizes, as nuts and seeds are calorie-dense
- Pair the roasted pumpkin seeds with other nutrient-rich snacks, such as fresh vegetables or fruits, to create a more balanced and satisfying snack experience
Editor's Opinion on This Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
The recipe for spicy roast pumpkin seeds is a delightful combination of savory and spicy flavors. The use of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar adds depth and complexity to the seeds, while the olive oil spray helps to achieve a satisfying crunch. The seasoning blend is well-balanced, enhancing the natural nuttiness of the pumpkin seeds without overpowering them. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in a delicious and addictive snack. This recipe is a perfect way to make the most of pumpkin seeds and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a tasty treat for yourself.
Enhance Your Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Spicy Roast Pumpkin Seeds Recipe:
This spicy roast pumpkin seeds recipe is a must-try for all pumpkin seed enthusiasts. The combination of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder creates a flavorful and aromatic blend that will elevate your snacking experience. The use of olive oil spray ensures a light and even coating, while the addition of light brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness. With a perfect balance of spices and a crunchy texture, these seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack option. Trust in the quality of this recipe to satisfy your cravings for a savory and spicy treat.
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