Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Introduction

Discover a delicious and crunchy snack with Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. This recipe transforms fresh pumpkin seeds into a flavorful and addictive treat that’s perfect for munching on any time of the day.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds is a great way to reduce waste and make a healthy, homemade snack. Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients like magnesium and zinc, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Plus, roasting them in the air fryer gives them a satisfying crunch without the need for excess oil.

How to Make Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

1. Remove 2 cups worth of pumpkin seeds from a fresh pumpkin and place in a colander. Rinse well, removing all of the pumpkin pulp from the seeds.
2. Place the seeds between two layers of paper or cloth towels and press dry.
3. Add the seeds to a mixing bowl and drizzle with the oil. Sprinkle on the garlic salt and paprika. Stir well to coat.
4. Pour the pumpkin seeds into the air fryer basket.
5. Cook the pumpkin seeds at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes if needed to get the seeds perfectly roasted, but keep a close eye on them as they’ll go from done to burnt easily.
6. Let cool before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Serve these roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack on their own, or use them as a crunchy topping for salads, soups, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to trail mixes for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

How to Store Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Store the cooled roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

• Make sure to remove all the pumpkin pulp from the seeds before roasting to prevent them from burning.
• Experiment with different seasonings like cinnamon and sugar, curry powder, or chili flakes for unique flavor variations.
• Adjust the cooking time in the air fryer based on your desired level of roasting for the pumpkin seeds.

Variation

For a sweeter version of roasted pumpkin seeds, omit the garlic salt and paprika, and toss the seeds with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt before air frying.

FAQs

1. Can I use pumpkin seeds from a store-bought pumpkin? Yes, you can use pumpkin seeds from any source as long as they are fresh and have been cleaned of any pumpkin pulp.
2. Can I roast pumpkin seeds in the oven instead of an air fryer? Yes, you can follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions and roast the seeds in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Are pumpkin seeds healthy for you? Yes, pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals, making them a nutritious snack option.