As the seasons change and autumn arrives, our thoughts turn to warm spices, cozy comforts, and the sweet, nutty flavor of pumpkin. While we often associate pumpkin with pies and soups, there’s another way to enjoy this versatile ingredient: as a flavorful snack or appetizer. Pumpkin seeds, in particular, offer a deliciously spicy twist on traditional nuts. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that will have you craving the bold flavors of roasted cinnamon sugar, smoky BBQ, and sweet and salty caramel. From savory to sweet, these spicy pumpkin seeds recipes are sure to spice up your snack game.
Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds
Transform ordinary pumpkin seeds into a sweet and spicy snack with this simple recipe. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and roasting brings out the natural nutty flavor of the seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Add the pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the seeds and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
7. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds, perfect for munching on while watching your favorite shows or as a topping for salads and soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss together pumpkin seeds, olive oil, sriracha sauce, salt, and black pepper until the seeds are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and slightly puffed.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Spicy Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds as is, or use them to top salads, soups, or yogurt parfaits!
Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Seeds
Transform your pumpkin seeds into a savory and aromatic snack with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin seeds, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Pumpkin Seeds
Sweet and tangy, these Honey Mustard Glazed Pumpkin Seeds make a delicious snack or addition to your favorite fall recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey and mustard until smooth.
3. Add pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the seeds and sprinkle with salt.
5. Spread the seed mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the seeds are toasted and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pumpkin Seeds
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe for Smoky BBQ Pumpkin Seeds! These sweet and smoky treats are perfect for munching on while watching a game or as a unique addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the seeds are toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Brown Butter Pumpkin Seeds
Transform plain pumpkin seeds into a sweet and savory snack with this easy recipe. The combination of maple syrup, brown butter, and sea salt creates a deliciously addictive flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. Add the maple syrup and whisk until smooth.
4. Add the pumpkin seeds and toss until evenly coated with the brown butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle with sea salt.
6. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds
Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted pumpkin seeds, this recipe adds a spicy kick and a burst of citrus flavor.
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Precise the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix pumpkin seeds, olive oil, lime juice, and chili powder in a bowl until the seeds are evenly coated.
- Spread the seed mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the seeds are toasted and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time:
30-35 minutes
Rosemary Sea Salt Pumpkin Seeds
Transform ordinary pumpkin seeds into a flavorful and aromatic snack with this easy recipe. Infused with the earthy essence of rosemary and the savory taste of sea salt, these roasted pumpkin seeds make a perfect accompaniment to your favorite movie or as a healthy addition to your trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil, rosemary leaves, and sea salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the seed mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate Covered Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate your snacking game with these Dark Chocolate Covered Pumpkin Seeds. The perfect combination of crunchy and chewy, these bite-sized treats will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss pumpkin seeds with honey and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the seed mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Remove the pumpkin seeds from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Dip each cooled pumpkin seed into the melted chocolate, coating evenly.
8. Place the chocolate-covered seeds onto a parchment-lined plate or tray.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pumpkin seeds), 1-2 minutes (melting chocolate)
Enjoy your delicious Dark Chocolate Covered Pumpkin Seeds!
Curry Spiced Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the warmth of curry with the crunch of pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, curry powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the spiced pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until fragrant and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Salty Caramel Pumpkin Seeds
Transform plain pumpkin seeds into a deliciously addictive snack with this easy recipe. Sweet and salty caramel flavors combine to create the perfect autumn treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, water, and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract, sea salt, and baking soda; whisk until combined.
3. Add pumpkin seeds to the bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
4. Spread the seed mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
5. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until caramelized and toasted.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle granulated sugar over the top. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sugar is dissolved.
7. Allow seeds to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-7 minutes
Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this creamy and nutritious pasta dish, featuring roasted pumpkin seeds as the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss pumpkin seeds with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a food processor or blender, combine roasted pumpkin seeds, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil. Process until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta and pumpkin seed pesto in a serving bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Seed Granola Bars
These chewy bars combine the warmth of pumpkin with the crunch of granola, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chopped nuts and pumpkin seeds.
6. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Seed Brittle
A sweet and crunchy treat perfect for fall gatherings or as a seasonal snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin seeds, corn syrup, sugar, water, baking soda, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat; stir in cinnamon. Pour onto prepared baking sheet.
4. Let cool slightly, about 10 minutes, or until bubbly.
5. Use a spatula to spread the brittle into a thin layer. Allow to cool completely.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon
Experience the perfect blend of flavors with this Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon recipe, featuring a crispy pumpkin seed crust and a tender, flaky salmon fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pumpkin seeds, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and toss until well combined.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Divide the pumpkin seed mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Seed and Cranberry Trail Mix
Get ready to munch on a deliciously sweet and savory trail mix that combines the best of autumn’s flavors! This recipe is perfect for snacking on the go or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and pumpkin seeds.
2. Add the dried cranberries and stir until well combined.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the nut mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Drizzle with honey and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Pumpkin Seed Hummus
Transform your snack game with this creamy and nutritious hummus infused with the earthy flavor of roasted pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Roast pumpkin seeds in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a blender, combine chickpeas, roasted pumpkin seeds, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
5. Continue blending for an additional 2-3 minutes or until hummus reaches desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including roasting time)
Pumpkin Seed Energy Bites
A healthy and delicious snack perfect for a quick energy boost, these bite-sized treats are packed with nutritious pumpkin seeds and creamy peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and pumpkin seeds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Once firm, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form into bite-sized balls.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your snacking routine with these 18 delicious pumpkin seed recipes! From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, there’s something for everyone. Try roasting cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds or making spicy sriracha pumpkin seeds. Go sweet with honey mustard glazed pumpkin seeds or go savory with garlic parmesan pumpkin seeds. Or try your hand at some more adventurous recipes like smoky BBQ pumpkin seeds or curry spiced pumpkin seeds. Whatever you choose, these tasty treats are sure to be a hit!
Leave a Reply