If you're looking for a unique and flavorful snack, this buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe is the perfect option. These seeds, commonly discarded when preparing winter squash, can be transformed into a delicious snack with the right seasoning. The buffalo-style seasoning adds the perfect balance of heat and flavor, making these seeds a delightful treat for the cold winter months.
While winter squash seeds might not be a common item in your pantry, they are readily available in most supermarkets, particularly in the fall and winter months. Look for whole squash like butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash, and just scoop out the seeds. As for the cayenne pepper sauce, it's often found in the condiment aisle alongside hot sauces.
Ingredients in Buffalo-Style Winter Squash Seeds
Winter squash seeds: These are the seeds that you scoop out from winter squashes like butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash. They are full of fiber and can be eaten raw, but roasting them brings out their flavor.
Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the seeds and helps the seasoning stick. You can use unsalted to control the sodium level.
Cayenne pepper sauce: This adds the 'buffalo-style' spicy kick to the seeds. Be sure to check the heat level and use according to your preference.
One reader, Cole Otero says:
I recently tried the buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe and it was a game-changer! The combination of the butter and cayenne pepper sauce gave the seeds a delicious kick. The roasting process made them perfectly crispy. It's a unique and tasty snack that I'll definitely be making again!
Mastering the Art of Roasting Winter Squash Seeds
How to roast the squash seeds: Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spread the seeds coated with butter and cayenne pepper sauce onto the prepared baking sheet and roast for 30 to 45 minutes until they reach the desired crispness. Allow the seeds to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
How To Make Winter Squash Seeds Buffalo Hot Wings-Style
Enjoy a nutritious snack that’s rich in fiber with these Buffalo Hot Wings-style winter squash seeds, that’s coated with butter and cayenne pepper sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupwinter squash seeds,rinsed clean, patted dry
- 1tbspbutter,melted
- 1tbspcayenne pepper sauce,such as Frank’s® RedHot®
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
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Stir the seeds, butter, and cayenne pepper sauce together in a bowl to coat the seeds completely; spread onto prepared baking sheet.
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Roast the seeds to desired crispness for 30 to 45 minutes; cool completely on the baking sheet.
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Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
Use olive oil in place of melted butter, if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 195.17kcal
- Fat: 17.36g
- Saturated Fat: 4.35g
- Trans Fat: 0.13g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.39g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.97g
- Carbohydrates: 4.40g
- Fiber: 1.93g
- Sugar: 0.43g
- Protein: 8.85g
- Cholesterol: 7.63mg
- Sodium: 98.87mg
- Calcium: 16.47mg
- Potassium: 238.39mg
- Iron: 2.40mg
- Vitamin A: 24.56µg
- Vitamin C: 3.17mg
Pro Tip for Perfectly Crispy Buffalo-Style Seeds
When roasting winter squash seeds, it's important to stir them occasionally to ensure even roasting. This will prevent some seeds from burning while others remain undercooked. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper sauce according to your taste preference. If you like it spicier, add more; if you prefer it milder, add less. Remember, the key to a good recipe is balancing the flavors to your liking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Buffalo-Style Seeds
Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Save time by using a food processor to quickly and efficiently process the squash seeds and coat them with the butter and cayenne pepper sauce.
Multi-task: While the seeds are roasting in the oven, use that time to prepare other dishes or clean up the kitchen to save time later.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch of buffalo-style winter squash seeds and store the extras in an airtight container for a quick and convenient snack option.
Invest in quality tools: High-quality kitchen tools and equipment can make the cooking process more efficient, saving time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Winter Squash Seeds Buffalo Hot Wings-Style Recipe
winter squash seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds have a similar texture and flavor to winter squash seeds, making them a suitable substitute for this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and will still provide a rich and smooth texture to the dish.
cayenne pepper sauce - Substitute with hot sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper: Hot sauce combined with a small amount of cayenne pepper can replicate the heat and flavor of cayenne pepper sauce in the recipe.
Creative Ways to Serve Spicy Squash Seeds
Elevate the flavor profile: Enhance the flavor of the winter squash seeds by adding a touch of smoked paprika and garlic powder to the seasoning mix. This will add depth and complexity to the dish, impressing the judges with the bold flavors.
Artful plating: Arrange the roasted winter squash seeds on a sleek, modern slate platter to create a visually stunning presentation. The dark background will make the seeds pop and showcase the dish's elegance.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a contrasting element by sprinkling a few crunchy sea salt flakes over the roasted seeds. This will add a delightful textural component, elevating the overall dining experience.
Balance with acidity: Drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction over the seeds to provide a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the butter and adding a sophisticated touch to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley over the seeds for a pop of color and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor, enhancing the visual appeal and taste of the dish.
Serve on elegant serveware: Present the buffalo-style winter squash seeds on a silver platter or a chic wooden board to convey a sense of luxury and refinement, demonstrating attention to detail and sophistication in the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Roasting Seeds
- Oven: You will need an oven to roast the winter squash seeds to perfection.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is essential for spreading out the coated seeds and roasting them in the oven.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Use parchment paper or aluminum foil to line the baking sheet, preventing the seeds from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Bowl: A bowl is necessary for mixing the winter squash seeds, butter, and cayenne pepper sauce together to coat the seeds completely.
- Spatula: A spatula can be used to spread the coated seeds onto the prepared baking sheet before roasting.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Winter Squash Seeds
Let the buffalo-style winter squash seeds cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their crispness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Store the cooled buffalo-style winter squash seeds in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container to keep the seeds fresh and crispy.
Label the container with the date you made the buffalo-style winter squash seeds to keep track of their freshness.
The buffalo-style winter squash seeds can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
For longer storage, you can freeze the buffalo-style winter squash seeds:
- Place the cooled seeds in a freezer-safe, airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Store the buffalo-style winter squash seeds in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To enjoy the frozen buffalo-style winter squash seeds, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If desired, you can refresh their crispness by placing them in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Reviving Leftover Roasted Squash Seeds
To reheat leftover buffalo-style winter squash seeds, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Spread the seeds evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the sheet in the oven and heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the seeds are warm and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Another option is to reheat the spicy squash seeds in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the seeds. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly toasted. This method is quick and allows you to easily monitor the seeds to avoid overcooking.
For a faster reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the roasted squash seeds in a microwave-safe bowl and heat them in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the seeds to become chewy or burn.
If you find that the reheated buffalo-style seeds have lost some of their crispness, you can restore it by placing them under the broiler for a minute or two after reheating. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, and remove them from the heat once they've regained their crunch.
Lastly, if you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover spicy winter squash seeds. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and place the seeds in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the seeds are warm and crispy.
Surprising Trivia About Winter Squash Seeds
The Buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe is a delicious and nutritious snack that provides a good source of fiber and healthy fats. Winter squash seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. The cayenne pepper sauce adds a spicy kick and a boost of flavor to the seeds. This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste by using the seeds from winter squash, and it's a perfect snack for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the crunchy and flavorful seeds as a tasty and satisfying treat!
Budget-Friendly Roasted Seed Snacks
The cost-effectiveness of this buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe is quite high. Winter squash seeds are typically inexpensive, and the additional ingredients required, such as butter and cayenne pepper sauce, are also affordable and commonly found in most households. The recipe is simple and uses minimal ingredients, making it a budget-friendly snack option. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $3-$5, making it an economical choice for a tasty and nutritious snack.
Are Buffalo-Style Winter Squash Seeds Healthy?
The buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe is a relatively healthy snack option, but it does have some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's health aspects:
Positives:
- Winter squash seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber
- The seeds also contain essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron
Negatives:
- The recipe uses butter, which is high in saturated fat
- Cayenne pepper sauce may contain added sodium and preservatives
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the butter with a healthier fat source, such as olive oil or coconut oil. These oils are rich in monounsaturated and medium-chain fatty acids, which can provide health benefits like improved heart health and increased energy.
- Opt for a low-sodium or homemade cayenne pepper sauce to reduce the amount of added salt and preservatives. You can easily make your own by blending fresh cayenne peppers, garlic, and vinegar.
- Add some additional spices and herbs to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile of the seeds. Some great options include:
- Turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties
- Garlic powder, which can help support immune function
- Rosemary, which is rich in antioxidants
- Experiment with different types of winter squash seeds, such as acorn or butternut squash, to vary the nutrient content and taste.
- Pair the roasted seeds with a side of fresh, raw vegetables to increase your intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Why Our Editor Can't Get Enough of This Squash Seed Recipe
This buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic snack. The combination of butter and cayenne pepper sauce creates a rich and spicy flavor that perfectly complements the earthy taste of the squash seeds. The roasting process ensures a satisfying crunch, making it an irresistible treat. Whether served as a party snack or a midday indulgence, these seeds are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bold flavors and satisfying crunch of these buffalo-style winter squash seeds!
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Why trust this Winter Squash Seeds Buffalo Hot Wings-Style Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic snack, using winter squash seeds as the star ingredient. The combination of butter and cayenne pepper sauce creates a flavorful and spicy coating that will surely tantalize your taste buds. The low and slow roasting method ensures the seeds are perfectly crispy and delicious. Trust the enticing aroma and the promise of a satisfying crunch to elevate your snacking experience. With this recipe, you can transform humble squash seeds into a delectable and addictive treat. Embrace the unexpected and savor the bold flavors of this buffalo-style winter squash seeds recipe.
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