Easy Black Pepper Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: The Perfect Healthy Vegan Fall Snack

2周前

Inspired by: @iszy

As the leaves change color and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, it's the perfect time for carving pumpkins and cozy fall snacks! But what happens to all those wonderful pumpkin seeds you scoop out? Don't let them go to waste! This incredibly easy and healthy recipe transforms them into a delightfully crunchy, seasoned treat, highlighted by the often-underappreciated flavor of black pepper.

Many of us might think black pepper is just a background seasoning, but as our contributor @iszy beautifully puts it, "It really has a nice flavor of its own, and gives a nice sensation of a hint of heat." It truly is a spice that deserves more appreciation for its distinct character. Beyond its amazing taste, black pepper is also praised for its health benefits, being high in antioxidants, boasting anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in blood sugar control, and even boosting nutrient absorption, as one abillion community member wisely shared.

Whether you're looking for a quick, homemade snack, a vegan and gluten-free treat for Halloween parties, or simply a way to utilize every bit of your carved pumpkin, these roasted seeds are your answer. They're simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and burst with flavor!

Why You'll Love These Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Effortless Preparation: A straightforward recipe perfect for beginners or busy autumn days.
Healthy & Nutritious: A wholesome snack packed with fiber and beneficial nutrients.
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Naturally suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
No Waste Cooking: Make the most of your pumpkin carving fun!
Seasonal Delight: The ideal crunchy treat for fall gatherings and cozy evenings.

Pumpkin seeds arranged on a baking sheet before roasting with black pepper and olive oil.

What You'll Need

Equipment

Baking tray
Bowl

Ingredients

Pumpkin seeds (freshly scooped from your pumpkin) - check out these organic pumpkin seeds for inspiration!
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor!)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Crispy roasted pumpkin seeds with black pepper in a glass bowl.

How to Make Easy Black Pepper Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

This recipe uses a two-step roasting process for extra crispiness!

Prepare the Seeds: After carving your pumpkin, carefully separate the seeds from the fibrous strands. Rinse away any large bits of pumpkin "goo" from the seeds under cold water. Pat them as dry as possible with a paper towel.
Initial Bake (Drying): Arrange the cleaned seeds in a single layer on a baking tray. Bake them at 250°F (120°C) for 60 minutes. This low and slow bake helps to dry them out thoroughly, which is key for crispiness.
Season & Coat: Remove the seeds from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then toss well. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, tossing again until the seeds are evenly coated with all the seasonings.
Final Roast (Crisping): Spread the seasoned seeds back onto the baking tray in a single layer. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and roast for another 20 minutes, or until golden brown and perfectly crunchy. Keep a close eye on them during this stage to prevent burning.
Cool & Enjoy: Let the seeds cool completely on the baking tray. They will become even crispier as they cool. Then, snack away!

Variations & Tips for Perfection

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Sweet & Savory: For a delightful twist, toss the seeds with a dash of cinnamon and a tiny drizzle of maple syrup along with the salt and pepper.
Smoky Flavor: A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth.
Herb Garden: Experiment with dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Extra Crispy Tip: Ensure your seeds are as dry as possible before the first bake. A quick pat-down or even air-drying them for a few hours can help.
Even Roasting: Stir the seeds once or twice during both baking stages to ensure uniform crispiness.
Storage: Store cooled roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Ready to transform your pumpkin carving leftovers into a delicious and healthy snack? Give this Easy Black Pepper Roasted Pumpkin Seeds recipe a try today! Share your creations with the abillion community and let us know your favorite seasoning twists!