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Pumpkin seeds are a nutritious and versatile snack, but the magic lies in the seasoning. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, spicy, or a blend of all three, this guide will show you how to create the ultimate pumpkin seed seasoning recipe. Packed with tips, variations, and creative uses, this post will help you elevate your roasted pumpkin seeds to the next level. Before diving into this pumpkin seed seasoning recipe, make sure to check out our guide on how to bake pumpkin seeds for the perfect crunchy base
How to Make Pumpkin Seed Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
To craft the best pumpkin seed seasoning recipe, you’ll need a balance of spices and other flavor-enhancing ingredients. Here’s a versatile seasoning mix to start with:
Basic Pumpkin Seed Seasoning Ingredients:
- Pumpkin seeds: 1 cup, raw or roasted
- Olive oil or melted butter: 1 tablespoon (for coating)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon (adds a smoky depth)
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Brown sugar or honey: 1 teaspoon (for a hint of sweetness)
Instructions to Make Pumpkin Seed Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pumpkin Seeds
- If using raw seeds, rinse them thoroughly to remove any pulp or debris.
- Boil the seeds in salted water for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and soften the shells.
- Drain and pat the seeds dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to roast the seeds after seasoning.
Step 3: Coat the Seeds
- Place the dried pumpkin seeds in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the seeds to ensure the seasoning sticks evenly. Toss until coated.
Step 4: Mix and Apply Seasoning
- Combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the seeds. Toss until the seeds are evenly coated.
Step 5: Roast the Seeds
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes for even roasting.
- Let the seeds cool completely before serving.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Seed Seasoning
- Dry Your Seeds Thoroughly: Moisture prevents the seasoning from adhering and leads to uneven roasting.
- Adjust Salt Levels: If boiling seeds in salted water, reduce the added salt in your seasoning to avoid over-salting.
- Even Coating: Use your hands or a spatula to ensure every seed is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Customize Heat: Add or omit cayenne pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Roast Slowly: Lower temperatures (300°F) allow flavors to develop more deeply without burning the seeds.
Creative Uses and Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Seed Seasoning
Pumpkin seed seasoning is incredibly versatile, elevating both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re enjoying these crunchy seeds as a snack or incorporating them into recipes, their unique flavor adds a delightful touch. Here are some great ways to use seasoned pumpkin seeds and what to serve alongside them.
Where to Use Pumpkin Seed Seasoning
- Salad Enhancer
– Toss seasoned pumpkin seeds over a green salad or grain bowl for an added crunch. Their robust flavors complement dressings like balsamic vinaigrette, Caesar, or honey mustard.
– Great for: Kale salad, spinach salad, or quinoa bowls. - Soup Garnish
– Use roasted pumpkin seeds as a topping for creamy soups like butternut squash, pumpkin, tomato bisque, or carrot ginger soup. They add a delightful texture and flavor contrast. - Trail Mix or Snack Bars
– Add seasoned pumpkin seeds to homemade trail mixes with nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate chips. You can also include them in energy bars for a nutritious boost. - Bread and Baked Goods
– Sprinkle pumpkin seeds with seasoning onto bread dough or muffin batter before baking. This works especially well with savory breads like focaccia or whole-grain rolls. - Rice and Grain Bowls
– Top rice pilaf, couscous, or farro dishes with seasoned seeds for a crunchy, nutty twist. They work beautifully in both warm and cold grain dishes. - Breakfast Toppings
– Use sweet-seasoned pumpkin seeds as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or smoothie bowls. The sugary or cinnamon flavor adds a dessert-like touch to breakfast. - Charcuterie and Cheese Boards
– Include seasoned pumpkin seeds in your next charcuterie spread. Their crunch pairs well with creamy cheeses, crackers, and dried fruits. - Taco or Wrap Filling
– Add seasoned pumpkin seeds to tacos, burritos, or wraps for an unexpected layer of flavor and texture. They go particularly well with vegetarian or bean-based fillings. - For Charcuterie and Cheese Boards:
– Pumpkin seeds seasoned with this recipe pair wonderfully with spicy meats like in this hot soppressata.
What to Serve With Seasoned Pumpkin Seeds
1. Savory Pairings
- Appetizers: Pair your seasoned seeds with hummus, guacamole, or spicy bean dips for a flavor-packed appetizer platter.
- Main Courses: Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, baked chicken, or grilled salmon as a crunchy side.
2. Sweet Pairings
- Desserts: Sweet-seasoned pumpkin seeds are an excellent garnish for pies, ice cream, or even chocolate bark. They add crunch and a hint of spice to desserts like pumpkin pie or cheesecake.
- Snacks: Pair them with candied nuts, dried fruits, or caramel popcorn for a sweet and salty treat.
3. Drinks to Complement
- Fall-Themed Beverages: Pair your seasoned pumpkin seeds with hot apple cider, chai tea, or pumpkin spice lattes.
- Cocktails: Spicy seasoned seeds pair well with bold drinks like margaritas, spiced rum, or smoky bourbon cocktails.
Variations
- Sweet Pumpkin Seed Seasoning:
Ingredients: Cinnamon (1 tsp), nutmeg (¼ tsp), brown sugar (1 tbsp), and a pinch of salt.
Instructions: Combine these ingredients and toss with seeds for a dessert-like treat. - Spicy Pumpkin Seed Seasoning:
Ingredients: Chili powder (1 tsp), cayenne pepper (½ tsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), and salt (1 tsp).
Instructions: Toss with olive oil and roast for a bold, spicy kick. - Herbed Pumpkin Seed Seasoning:
Ingredients: Dried rosemary (½ tsp), thyme (½ tsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), and salt (1 tsp).
Instructions: Use olive oil and toss with seeds for a fragrant, savory blend. - Cheesy Pumpkin Seed Seasoning:
Ingredients: Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tbsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), and Italian seasoning (1 tsp).
Instructions: Sprinkle the Parmesan over the seeds during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
FAQs
How do I make pumpkin seed seasoning stick better?
Use a small amount of olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning adhere evenly to the seeds. Ensure the seeds are dry before applying oil.
How long does it take to roast seasoned pumpkin seeds?
At 350°F, it takes 25–30 minutes. For slower roasting at 300°F, allow 35–40 minutes. Stir the seeds every 10 minutes for even cooking.
Can I make pumpkin seed seasoning in advance?
Yes! Mix your spices and store them in an airtight container for up to a month. This makes it easy to season fresh seeds quickly.
What’s the best way to store seasoned pumpkin seeds?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them.
Can I use this seasoning for other nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! This seasoning works wonderfully on sunflower seeds, almonds, or cashews. Adjust roasting times accordingly.
Can I make pumpkin seed seasoning without salt?
Yes, you can omit the salt and add other spices like smoked paprika or cinnamon for flavor.
Substitutes
- Pumpkin Seeds: Substitute with sunflower seeds, pepitas, or shelled squash seeds.
- Olive Oil: Use melted butter, avocado oil, or coconut oil for different flavor profiles.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute with honey, maple syrup, or stevia for sweetness.
- Smoked PaprikReplace with regular paprika or chili powder for a different flavor.
Nutrition (Per Serving of Seasoned Pumpkin Seeds)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg (varies by seasoning)
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make pumpkin seed seasoning recipe, you can transform a simple snack into a gourmet delight. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or savory, the possibilities are endless. Try these variations, pair them with your favorite dishes, and enjoy the unbeatable crunch of roasted pumpkin seeds enhanced by your signature seasoning blend!
Don’t forget to check out other recipes on The Recipe Diary, like How to Bake Pumpkin Seeds or Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta, for more culinary inspiration.
Ingredients
Basic Pumpkin Seed Seasoning Ingredients:
- Pumpkin seeds: 1 cup, raw or roasted
- Olive oil or melted butter: 1 tablespoon (for coating)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon (adds a smoky depth)
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Brown sugar or honey: 1 teaspoon (for a hint of sweetness)
Instructions
Instructions to Make Pumpkin Seed Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pumpkin Seeds
- If using raw seeds, rinse them thoroughly to remove any pulp or debris.
- Boil the seeds in salted water for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and soften the shells.
- Drain and pat the seeds dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to roast the seeds after seasoning.
Step 3: Coat the Seeds
- Place the dried pumpkin seeds in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the seeds to ensure the seasoning sticks evenly. Toss until coated.
Step 4: Mix and Apply Seasoning
- Combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the seeds. Toss until the seeds are evenly coated.
Step 5: Roast the Seeds
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes for even roasting.
- Let the seeds cool completely before serving.
Notes
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Seed Seasoning
- Dry Your Seeds Thoroughly: Moisture prevents the seasoning from adhering and leads to uneven roasting.
- Adjust Salt Levels: If boiling seeds in salted water, reduce the added salt in your seasoning to avoid over-salting.
- Even Coating: Use your hands or a spatula to ensure every seed is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Customize Heat: Add or omit cayenne pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Roast Slowly: Lower temperatures (300°F) allow flavors to develop more deeply without burning the seeds.
