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Savory Spiced Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Easy 20-Minute Recipe

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These Savory Spiced Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are a game-changer for your next gathering. Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes, they feature a perfect crunch with just the right amount of heat and savory goodness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pumpkin seeds (rinsed and patted completely dry)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Clean the seeds thoroughly. Place pumpkin seeds in a colander and rinse under cool running water, using fingers to gently rub away any stringy pumpkin pulp.
  3. Dry the seeds completely. Spread rinsed seeds on a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry, then let them sit for 5-10 minutes to air dry further.
  4. Mix the spice blend. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and cumin if using.
  5. Season the seeds. Place dried seeds in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss well. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the top and toss again until evenly coated.
  6. Spread on baking sheet. Pour seasoned seeds onto prepared baking sheet and spread into a single, even layer.
  7. Roast for 15-20 minutes. Place baking sheet on the middle rack. Halfway through (at about 8 minutes), shake the pan and stir seeds. Watch closely during the last 3 minutes for a deep golden brown color.
  8. Cool completely. Remove from oven and let seeds cool on the pan for at least 10 minutes.
  9. Break apart any clusters. Once cooled, use fingers to gently break apart any seeds that stuck together.

Notes

Dry seeds thoroughly to avoid chewy texture. Toast spices in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before mixing with oil for extra depth. Watch seeds closely during the last 5 minutes of roasting to prevent burning. Seeds taste even better the next day as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, roasted pumpkin seeds, savory snack, spiced seeds, fall recipe, party snack, game day snack, healthy snack, gluten-free, vegan