Description
Crispy “Mexican Roasted Pumpkin Seeds” bring southwestern spice magic to snack time. Perfectly seasoned kernels deliver crunchy satisfaction with bold flavor that keeps hands reaching back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) raw pumpkin seeds (cleaned and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil (or melted butter)
Seasoning Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
Instructions
- Harvest the delicate seeds from the pumpkin’s interior, carefully separating them from the stringy pulp using your fingers or a spoon.
- Thoroughly rinse the seeds under cool running water, meticulously removing any clinging pumpkin remnants and debris.
- Gently pat the seeds completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels, ensuring maximum moisture removal for optimal crispiness.
- Transfer the dehydrated seeds to a mixing bowl and drizzle with fragrant olive oil, generously sprinkling with kosher salt and your preferred aromatic seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper.
- Toss the seeds until each one is evenly coated with the flavorful oil and seasonings.
- Arrange the seasoned seeds in a uniform, single layer across a parchment-lined baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding to promote even roasting.
- Position the baking sheet in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C), allowing the seeds to transform into golden, crunchy morsels.
- Midway through roasting, gently stir the seeds to ensure uniform browning and prevent potential burning.
- Remove the seeds when they achieve a rich, golden-brown color and emit a nutty aroma, typically after 20-25 minutes.
- Allow the roasted seeds to cool completely on the baking sheet, where they will continue to crisp and develop a satisfying crunch.
Notes
- Pat seeds completely dry to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy results.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or multiple paper towels to absorb excess moisture effectively.
- Experiment with diverse seasoning combinations like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for exciting flavor variations.
- Store roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain their crunch and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg