Description
Crispy roasted pumpkin seeds bring Mediterranean-inspired magic to snack time, offering a delightful crunch with herb-infused complexity. Salt, olive oil, and za’atar create an irresistible flavor profile you’ll crave with every handful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse raw pumpkin seeds under cool water, removing any pulp or stringy fibers, then carefully pat completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Preheat oven to 325°F, preparing a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Transfer seeds into a mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss until each seed is evenly coated with a light, glistening layer.
- Sprinkle salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over the seeds, mixing meticulously to ensure uniform seasoning distribution.
- Spread seeds in a single, flat layer across the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overlapping to guarantee even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote consistent golden-brown coloration and prevent burning.
- Remove from oven when seeds turn crispy and acquire a light golden hue, releasing a nutty, aromatic fragrance.
- Optional: Immediately sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and dried herbs over the hot seeds for an extra flavor dimension.
- Allow seeds to cool completely on the baking sheet, where they will continue to crisp up and develop a satisfying crunch.
- Transfer to an airtight container for storage, enjoying within 1-2 weeks for maximum freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Pat seeds completely dry to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent steaming instead of roasting.
- Experiment with alternative spice blends like curry powder, smoked paprika, or za’atar for diverse flavor profiles.
- Use a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to quickly remove excess moisture from seeds before seasoning.
- Transform into a gluten-free and vegan snack by carefully selecting complementary spices and avoiding dairy toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 1 mg