5 Delicious Pumpkin Seed Recipes You'll Love

Pumpkin seeds, often overlooked, are nutritional powerhouses, offering a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that can enhance various dishes. Whether you're looking for something sweet, savory, or simply an easy snack, this blog post will guide you through five delicious pumpkin seed recipes that are both simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Spices

Start your journey with a classic – roasted pumpkin seeds. Here’s how:

• Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin seeds, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic powder, ¹⁄₂ teaspoon paprika, ¹⁄₄ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Clean the seeds: Remove any bits of pumpkin flesh and rinse well.
  2. Boil: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add seeds, and simmer for 10 minutes to soften the seed coat.
  3. Preheat: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  4. Season: Toss the seeds with oil and spices.
  5. Bake: Spread seeds evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
  6. Cool: Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

⚠️ Note: If using hulled pumpkin seeds (pepitas), skip the boiling step as they don't have the tough outer seed coat.

Pumpkin Seed Pesto

If you’re looking to revamp your pasta, this pesto sauce infused with pumpkin seeds is a must-try.

• Ingredients: 1 cup fresh basil leaves, ¹⁄₂ cup pumpkin seeds, ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, ¹⁄₂ cup extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Instructions:
  1. Process: In a food processor, combine basil, pumpkin seeds, cheese, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  2. Mix: With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until well combined.
  3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for your flavor preference.

Pumpkin Seed Granola

Pumpkin seed granola is a fantastic way to start your day or to enjoy as a snack:

• Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats, 1 cup pumpkin seeds, ¹⁄₄ cup honey, 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil, ¹⁄₂ teaspoon vanilla extract, ¹⁄₄ cup dried cranberries, ¹⁄₄ cup dark chocolate chips.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring everything is well coated.
  2. Spread: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread the mixture evenly.
  3. Bake: At 300°F (150°C) for about 20-25 minutes, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.
  4. Cool: Let the granola cool completely to crisp up, then break apart into chunks.

Pumpkin Seed Dip

Here’s a savory dip perfect for parties or a cozy evening in:

• Ingredients: 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds, ¹⁄₄ cup water, 2 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves garlic (minced), ¹⁄₄ teaspoon cumin, salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• Instructions:
  1. Blend: In a blender, combine all ingredients except the olive oil.
  2. Puree: Blend until smooth, adding water if needed for consistency.
  3. Serve: Drizzle with olive oil before serving. Great with veggies, pita bread, or as a spread.

Pumpkin Seed and Kale Salad

To bring something fresh and healthful to your table:

• Ingredients: 1 bunch of kale (stems removed, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces), ¹⁄₂ cup roasted pumpkin seeds, ¹⁄₄ cup dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Instructions:
  1. Prep: Massage the kale with olive oil to soften the leaves.
  2. Mix: Combine kale, seeds, and cranberries in a large salad bowl.
  3. Dressing: Whisk together lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper; drizzle over the salad.
  4. Serve: Toss well and serve immediately.

💡 Note: The nutritional value of pumpkin seeds includes high amounts of magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fats, making them an excellent addition to your diet.

Each of these recipes showcases the versatility of pumpkin seeds, making them a fantastic ingredient for various dishes, from snacks to full meals. They're easy to prepare, offer a unique flavor profile, and are packed with nutrients. Whether you're looking to boost your meal prep with some extra nutrition or trying something new for your next gathering, these recipes will elevate your culinary experience with the simple, yet mighty pumpkin seed.

Can I use raw pumpkin seeds for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use raw pumpkin seeds, but roasting them enhances their flavor. For some recipes, like the salad, raw seeds can provide a different but equally delicious taste.

How long can I store roasted pumpkin seeds?

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Roasted pumpkin seeds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerated for up to a month.

Are there health benefits to eating pumpkin seeds?

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Yes, pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats, which can improve heart health, boost the immune system, and contribute to overall well-being.