If you’ve ever carved a pumpkin, you know there’s a treasure trove of seeds waiting to be transformed into something delicious. My son, Jake, always insists on saving the seeds because he loves snacking on them while we watch Halloween movies. Today, we’re turning leftover pumpkin into Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds, a savory finger food that’s perfect for any occasion.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They’re a great way to use leftover pumpkin.
- The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick.
- They’re easy to make and perfect for snacking.
Pure Comfort
These Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds are not just tasty; they bring back fond family memories of cozy evenings spent together. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.
What You Need
- 1 cup Pumpkin seeds (from 1 medium pumpkin) – Rinse and dry them well.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil – Can substitute with melted coconut oil.
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning – Adjust to taste; use your favorite spice blend.
- 1/2 tsp Salt – Feel free to use sea salt or garlic salt.
- 1/2 tsp Paprika – Smoked paprika adds a nice flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Total: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, store in an airtight container.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This temperature is perfect for roasting and will help the seeds become nice and crispy.
- While the oven heats, rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold water to remove any pumpkin flesh. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel to dry, as this will help them roast evenly.
- In a bowl, combine the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and paprika. Toss everything together until the seeds are well coated, and you can smell that spicy aroma.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Roast the seeds in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and turn a lovely golden brown.
- Once they’re ready, they should be crispy and fragrant. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, so you don’t burn your fingers!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the oil mixture.
- Keep an eye on the seeds as they roast; they can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
- Store leftover seeds in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Mix It Up
- Try adding different spices like garlic powder or cayenne for more heat.
- For a sweet twist, toss the seeds with cinnamon and sugar instead of Cajun seasoning.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side of spicy salsa for dipping.
- Pair with a cold drink like lemonade or iced tea.
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FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in an airtight container for up to a week.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
Can I freeze roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, you can freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
You can use any spice blend you like, such as Creole seasoning or even taco seasoning.
What if my seeds don’t get crispy?
Make sure they are completely dry before roasting and check them towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion
These Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds are a fantastic way to enjoy leftover pumpkin. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and a hit with the whole family. So, next time you carve a pumpkin, save those seeds and whip up this delicious snack!
Spicy Cajun Pumpkin Seeds Savory Snack From Leftover Pumpkin
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
- Rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold water and dry them thoroughly on a clean kitchen towel.
- In a bowl, combine the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and paprika, tossing until well coated.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the seeds in the oven for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Let the roasted seeds cool a few minutes before serving.