Whether you go to a pumpkin patch or just buy one from your local grocery store, pumpkins are officially in season. Once you carve those jack-o-lanterns, what do you do with all the seeds?
So many people I know throw the seeds away. Not cool. Even if you don't like how pumpkin seeds normally taste, there are so many ways to make them so that you do. And they're all relatively easy, because it's a matter of eyeballing. It's not about 2 tbsp of this, or 1 tsp of that. It's like putting salt on your veggies. You know when to stop.
Every year, my family and I have a blast experimenting with different pumpkin seed recipes. And we have snacks to last for days.
Remember before roasting any of the seeds to rinse them -- get all that pumpkin goop off of there -- and allow them to dry for an hour or so. Always season before roasting the seeds!
1. Sea Salt
For those of you who do enjoy the taste of pumpkin seeds, this is the best way to go. Just rub one some olive oil, sprinkle a little salt and bake.
2. Honey & Sugar
For those who like sweet, but natural, honey and sugar is the way to go. Simply brush the seeds with some honey, and sprinkle with sugar before baking.
The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to substitute ingredients. Molasses, maple syrup, and brown sugar, can all be substituted for the honey, and they add enough flavor that sugar isn't necessary.
3. Chocolate
This recipe is a personal favorite, and it's super easy because it only takes three ingredients: melted margarine, cocoa powder, and sugar. First, brush the seeds with the margarine. Cocoa powder alone is pretty bitter, but if you like that kind of thing you can skip the sugar. In order to make the seeds actually taste like chocolate, however, you need something sweet.
4. Cinnamon
Because it is fall, cinnamon is a necessity. The first step for this recipe is to lightly brush the dried seeds with some melted butter or margarine. Then sprinkle a mixture of brown and white sugar on top. Lastly, dash some cinnamon to taste. Pop in the oven, and eat up.
5. Chili
The most savory of the recipes comes with a little cumin, salt, and ground cayenne pepper. Brush the seeds with oil, and season to taste.
6. Chipotle
For the spice lover out there, this recipe is one of the simplest. Brush the seeds with some olive oil, and then sprinkle with chipotle chili powder, and voila. Bake and enjoy.
7. Lemon Cayenne
This flavor packs a punch. Simply brush the seeds with oil, and add some lemon pepper. The sprinkle some cayenne (however much your taste buds can handle). Roast, and snack.
Never throw out your pumpkin seeds again. There is always a recipe to satisfy your cravings.
