How to Use Up Those Pumpkin Seeds: Tasty Ideas & Recipes
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Carved your pumpkins? Perfect! Now don’t toss those seeds! Packed with nutrients, pumpkin seeds are versatile, delicious, and can be a fun, crunchy addition to your fall recipes. Here’s how to make the most of those seeds with these easy ideas and recipes! 🍂
1. Classic Roasted Pumpkin Seeds 🍂🌶️
Let’s start with the classic! Roasting pumpkin seeds is easy, delicious, and brings out their rich flavor.
How to Make Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
Clean the seeds by removing the pumpkin flesh. Rinse them in a colander to get them squeaky clean. 🧼
Dry them well with a towel (this helps them roast evenly).
Season with your favorite flavors! Toss them in a little oil, then choose one of these spice combos:
Classic Salt & Pepper 🧂
Spicy Kick 🌶️: Paprika, chili powder, and a sprinkle of cayenne.
Garlic & Herb 🧄🌿: Garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Give them a shake halfway through!
2. Pumpkin Seed Trail Mix 🥾🍫
Mix up your own trail mix for a hearty snack on the go! Toss roasted pumpkin seeds with nuts, dried fruit, and a little chocolate or coconut for sweetness. Perfect for hikes, school lunches, or just munching at home. 🌲🥜
Trail Mix Combos:
Sweet & Salty: Roasted pumpkin seeds + dried cranberries + chocolate chips + almonds.
Tropical Twist: Pumpkin seeds + dried mango + cashews + coconut flakes.
3. Pumpkin Seed Granola 🥣🌰
Add pumpkin seeds to homemade granola for an extra crunch. You can use it as a cereal, sprinkle it on yogurt, or just snack on it by the handful!
How to Make Pumpkin Seed Granola:
Combine oats, pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and a little oil.
Add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm fall flavor.
Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Pumpkin Seed Pesto 🌿🥖
Swap pine nuts for pumpkin seeds to make a unique pesto! Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or even as a pizza topping.
Pumpkin Seed Pesto Recipe:
Blend together:
1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
2 cups fresh basil
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1-2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Serve on pasta, crusty bread, or veggies!
5. Pumpkin Seed Butter 🥜💚
Looking for a nut-free alternative to peanut butter? Try pumpkin seed butter! Spread it on toast, drizzle it on oatmeal, or dip fruit slices in it.
How to Make Pumpkin Seed Butter:
Roast 2 cups of pumpkin seeds at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then cool.
Blend in a food processor, scraping the sides as needed, until smooth (about 5-10 minutes). Add a touch of salt or honey if you like it sweet!
6. Add to Salads for Crunch 🥗🍂
Pumpkin seeds make the perfect topping for salads, adding a nutty crunch that pairs well with fresh greens, roasted veggies, and crumbled cheese.
Fall Salad Idea:
Toss together mixed greens, roasted pumpkin seeds, sliced apples, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect side for any autumn meal! 🍏
7. Pumpkin Seed Energy Bites ⚡🍫
Perfect for a snack on the go, these no-bake bites are easy to make and so tasty!
Pumpkin Seed Energy Bites Recipe:
Combine:
1 cup oats
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup nut butter (or pumpkin seed butter!)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
Optional: chocolate chips, dried fruit, or coconut flakes
Roll into balls and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
8. Pumpkin Seed Brittle 🍬✨
For those with a sweet tooth, try making pumpkin seed brittle! It’s a caramelized treat with a nutty, crunchy finish.
Pumpkin Seed Brittle Recipe:
Melt 1 cup sugar with 1/4 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds when the sugar melts and turns golden brown.
Pour onto a baking sheet lined with parchment and let cool. Break into pieces and enjoy!
9. Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken 🍗🌿
Use crushed pumpkin seeds as a breading for chicken or fish for a crunchy, flavorful twist on dinner!
Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Recipe:
Grind pumpkin seeds with breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then in the pumpkin seed mixture.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Blend into Smoothies for a Protein Boost 🥤💪
Pumpkin seeds are packed with protein, so toss a tablespoon into your morning smoothie!
Pumpkin Spice Smoothie Recipe:
Blend together:
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
A splash of milk (or almond milk)
Whether you’re snacking, baking, or adding them to your meals, pumpkin seeds are a versatile way to keep the fall flavors going! 🍂🌻 Get creative and enjoy the crunch this season!
There you have it—spooktacular ideas for that candy pile! Whether donating, dec
Stay buzzing, families! The Buzzy B 🐝💛
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orating, or indulging in some delicious recipes, there’s always a way to make use of extra Halloween treats! 🎃👻