Are you tired of bland, boring snacks that leave you unsatisfied? Get ready to transform ordinary pumpkin seeds into a mouthwatering, crispy sensation that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! These Salty Pumpkin Seeds are not just a snack; they're a flavor-packed experience that combines the perfect balance of crunch, seasoning, and addictive taste. Whether you're looking for a healthy alternative to chips or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- If using fresh pumpkin seeds, thoroughly rinse the seeds under cold water, removing any pulp or stringy membrane. Pat the seeds completely dry using clean paper towels or a kitchen towel. Ensuring the seeds are dry is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds with olive oil, ensuring each seed is evenly coated. The oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes even roasting.
- Add salt, garlic powder, and paprika to the oiled seeds. Toss and mix thoroughly, making sure the spices are distributed uniformly across all seeds.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure each seed roasts properly and becomes crisp.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, stirring the seeds halfway through to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Remove from oven when seeds are golden brown and crispy. They will continue to crisp slightly as they cool.
- Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This helps them achieve maximum crunchiness.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always ensure your pumpkin seeds are completely dry before roasting to achieve that perfect crunch.
- Use fresh, high-quality olive oil and evenly coat each seed for maximum flavor absorption.
- Stir the seeds halfway through cooking to prevent burning and ensure uniform roasting.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give your seeds space to breathe and crisp up properly.
- Experiment with different spice combinations like smoked paprika, cayenne, or even a touch of brown sugar for unique flavor profiles.
- Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet to maximize their crispiness.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
