Creative Ways to Enjoy and Store Pumpkin Seeds
Creative Ways to Enjoy and Store Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that enhances sweet and savory dishes.
Whether you’re snacking on them, incorporating them into recipes, or storing them for future use, here’s everything you need to know about these tiny powerhouses.
Table of Contents
What Are Pumpkin Seeds?
Pumpkin seeds come from pumpkins, a fruit native to North America and part of the cucurbit family, including cucumbers and melons.
The seeds are flat, oval, and olive-green, encased in an edible yellowish-white shell. They have a nutty flavor that intensifies when roasted and a texture that varies from chewy to crunchy.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium, calcium, and iron, pumpkin seeds are a healthful addition to your diet.
They also contain antioxidants that help combat cellular damage.
How to Use Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seed, whether whole or shelled (pepitas), are incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your meals:
- Enhance Granola or Trail Mix
Add a handful of pepitas to homemade granola or mix them with dried fruit, chocolate chips, and nuts for a quick, energizing trail mix. - Incorporate into Baked Goods
Use pepitas to top bread crusts, cookies, or oatmeal bars. Sprinkle them on quick breads like banana bread or as a decorative garnish before baking. - Top Breakfast Dishes
Sprinkle-shelled pumpkin seeds on yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal for added crunch and nutrition. - Make Pumpkin Seed Brittle
Combine pepitas with butter, brown sugar, and honey to create a simple and delicious candy brittle. - Garnish Savory Dishes
Swap out croutons for roasted pumpkin seeds on salads, soups, or pasta. For a cheesy twist, grind them with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt for a dairy-free “Parmesan.” - Blend into Dips and Spreads
Use pumpkin seeds in place of pine nuts for pesto or add them to hummus for a creamy texture and nutty flavor. - Create Pumpkin Seed Butter
Blend roasted pepitas with a bit of oil and salt for a nut-free alternative to peanut butter.
Eating Pumpkin Seed
Pumpkin seed can be eaten raw or roasted, with or without the shell.
- Whole Seeds: Great for snacking, they can be roasted to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Pepitas: These shelled seeds are more versatile and perfect for recipes requiring a smoother texture.
Storing Pumpkin Seed
To keep pumpkin seed fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential.
- Whole Seeds: Store raw seeds in a cool, dry place for up to six months. Roasted seeds last one to two weeks at room temperature or two months in the refrigerator.
- Shelled Seeds (Pepitas): Keep raw pepitas in the fridge for up to a year. Roasted pepitas last up to one month in the refrigerator or one to two weeks at room temperature.
Tip: Discard seeds that taste bitter or show signs of mold or discoloration.
Pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious way to add flavor, texture, and health benefits to your meals. Try out these ideas and enjoy how they can elevate your culinary creations!
