Satisfy your evening cravings with perfectly roasted pumpkin seeds, a delightfully crunchy and healthy bedtime snack that’s simple to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pumpkin Seeds: Use fresh seeds from a pumpkin or store-bought raw seeds.
- Oil: Olive oil or avocado oil work well.
- Salt: Fine sea salt or kosher salt.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (from one small pumpkin or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 120 calories
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Clean the Pumpkin Seeds
If using fresh pumpkin seeds, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any pumpkin pulp. Pat them very dry with a clean towel; this is crucial for crispiness.
3. Season the Seeds
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry pumpkin seeds with olive oil and salt. Toss until all seeds are evenly coated.
4. Spread and Roast
Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crunchy.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up further as they cool, making them an ideal healthy bedtime snack.
Variation Ideas:
- Sweet Treat: Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon and a tiny dash of maple syrup before roasting.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the salt.
- Savory Herbs: Mix in dried rosemary or garlic powder for an aromatic twist.
Storage Instructions:
Store your roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation and maintain crispness. These make an excellent prep-ahead healthy bedtime snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you roast store-bought pumpkin seeds?
A: Yes, you can absolutely roast raw, unshelled pumpkin seeds purchased from a store. Follow the same steps.
Q: How do you get pumpkin seeds crispy?
A: Drying the seeds thoroughly before seasoning and roasting them at a lower temperature for a longer time helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Q: Are roasted pumpkin seeds good for you before bed?
A: Yes, they are a great healthy bedtime snack. They contain tryptophan and magnesium, which can aid relaxation and sleep.
Q: What temperature should you roast pumpkin seeds at?
A: A temperature of 300°F (150°C) is ideal for roasting pumpkin seeds to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Q: Can you roast pumpkin seeds with the shells on?
A: Yes, this recipe is for roasting pumpkin seeds with their shells on. They become delightfully crunchy and edible.
Q: How long do roasted pumpkin seeds last?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container, roasted pumpkin seeds can last for up to a week at room temperature.
