When it comes to crafting the perfect snack or appetizer, few things can rival the satisfying crunch and savory flavor of homemade Spiced Pumpkin Seeds. This recipe, originating from lovewithrecipes.com, infuses these nutritious seeds with a delightful blend of spices, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these flavorful seeds to enjoy on their own or to add a tasty twist to salads, soups, or trail mixes.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup margarine, melted
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 802.2
- Fat: 71.8g
- Saturated Fat: 12.9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 745.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 15.2g
- Fiber: 7.8g
- Sugar: 2.4g
- Protein: 39.1g
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature ensures that the pumpkin seeds roast gently, allowing them to develop a crisp texture without burning.
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Prepare the Seasoning: In a bowl, combine the melted margarine, minced garlic, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
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Coat the Pumpkin Seeds: Add the raw pumpkin seeds to the bowl containing the seasoning mixture. Toss the seeds thoroughly, ensuring that each seed is coated with the flavorful blend of ingredients. This step is crucial for infusing the seeds with the delicious savory flavors.
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Arrange on Baking Dish: Once the pumpkin seeds are evenly coated, transfer them to a shallow baking dish. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even roasting. This allows the heat to circulate around each seed, promoting uniform cooking and flavor development.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the pumpkin seeds for approximately 1 hour. During the baking process, remember to stir the seeds occasionally to prevent them from sticking and ensure that they roast evenly on all sides. As the seeds roast, they will develop a golden brown color and a delightful aroma, signaling that they are ready to be enjoyed.
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Cool and Serve: Once the pumpkin seeds are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. The seeds will continue to crisp up as they cool, so be patient and resist the temptation to sample them straight from the oven. Once cooled, transfer the spiced pumpkin seeds to a serving bowl and enjoy them as a nutritious and delicious snack or accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spices and seasonings such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder.
- Store any leftover pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Enjoy them as a convenient grab-and-go snack or sprinkle them over salads, soups, or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture.
- To make this recipe even more kid-friendly, involve your little ones in the cooking process. Let them help coat the pumpkin seeds with the seasoning mixture and watch as they eagerly anticipate the delicious results.
With its crunchy texture, savory flavor, and nutritional benefits, this Spiced Pumpkin Seeds recipe is sure to become a staple in your snack repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply craving a wholesome treat, these homemade pumpkin seeds are guaranteed to satisfy your snack cravings and leave you coming back for more. So why wait? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a truly irresistible snack that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
