Deliciously Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Halloween Treat Without the Wrapper

Halloween is a time of excitement for many kids and even some adults. It’s a time for trying on costumes, stocking up on candy, and decorating pumpkins. While carving pumpkins can be messy, there is a delicious snack waiting to be made from the seeds. Instead of throwing them out, why not roast them?

Roasting your own pumpkin seeds not only allows you to control the amount of oil and salt used, but it also teaches your kids that snacks don’t always come in plastic bags – sometimes they come from a pumpkin.

First, you’ll want to make sure the seeds are clean and dry. After scooping out the guts and seeds from your pumpkin, use your fingers to remove as much of the gooey mess as possible. Then, transfer the seeds to a sieve or colander and rinse them under cold water. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a dishtowel to dry for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This will ensure that the seeds crisp up when roasted.

Some recipes call for hulling the pumpkin seeds, which means removing the outer shell and using only the smaller kernel inside. However, this step is not necessary as the shells are perfectly edible and provide added fiber.

Once the seeds are dry, it’s time to season them. You can get creative with spices and herbs from your pantry. Let your kids explore the spice drawer and choose their own combination. Sprinkle the chosen spices over the seeds, and if your kids are involved in the process, they’ll be more likely to try the roasted seeds and enjoy the flavors they’ve selected.

Some seasoning ideas include a Ranch blend, a mix of basil, oregano, Parmesan, and garlic powder, or a sweeter version with melted butter, ground cinnamon, and sugar.

Roast the pumpkin seeds at 350 degrees F for a crispy texture. Keep an eye on them toward the end as they can quickly go from golden to too brown. Let the seeds cool before eating to allow them to crisp up completely.

Here’s a simple recipe for roasted pumpkin seeds:

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Serves about 6 as a snack

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rinsed and dried raw pumpkin seeds
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
• Kosher salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, or a combination of any or all of the four seasonings (optional)

Enjoy these deliciously roasted pumpkin seeds as a Halloween treat without the wrapper!