Pumpkin seeds delicious and healthy treat for Halloween

Pumpkin seed recipe for Halloween

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, make for a delicious and healthy Halloween treat. Roasted pumpkin seeds are a popular snack, and they’re easy to make. Here’s a simple and tasty roasted pumpkin seed recipe for Halloween:

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups of pumpkin seeds (from a medium-sized pumpkin)

– 2 tablespoons of melted butter or olive oil

– Salt to taste

– Optional seasonings (see suggestions below)

Instructions:

1.Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

2. Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds:

– Start by carving your pumpkin if you’re using it for decoration. Scoop out the seeds and the attached stringy pulp. You’ll want to separate the seeds from the pulp. You can use your hands or a colander for this.

– Rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold water to remove any remaining pulp. Pat them dry with paper towels.

3. Flavoring the Seeds: In a bowl, toss the dried pumpkin seeds with the melted butter or olive oil until they are evenly coated. This will help the seasonings stick.

4. Add Salt: Sprinkle salt over the seeds. How much salt you use depends on your taste, but typically, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon should be enough. You can always add more after roasting if needed.

5. Optional Seasonings: Get creative with your flavors. You can add seasonings like:

– Garlic powder

– Paprika

– Cinnamon and sugar for a sweet variation

– Cayenne pepper for some heat

– Parmesan cheese

– Ranch seasoning mix

– Any other favorite seasonings you prefer

6. Roasting: Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

7. Baking: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the pumpkin seeds for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are golden brown. Stir or shake the seeds every 15-20 minutes to ensure even roasting.

8. Cooling: Once the pumpkin seeds are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. Be careful as they can be quite hot when they come out of the oven.

9. Enjoy: Once they have cooled, you can enjoy your homemade roasted pumpkin seeds. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

These roasted pumpkin seeds are a great Halloween snack for both kids and adults. You can customize the flavors to suit your taste, making them sweet or savory. They also make a delightful addition to your Halloween party spread or a tasty treat to enjoy while carving pumpkins.