Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Quick, Healthy Treat

Roasted pumpkin seeds are a delicious and healthy snack, perfect for the fall season. They are crispy, crunchy, and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. The air fryer is an excellent way to roast pumpkin seeds, resulting in a tasty treat ready in half the time it would take in an oven. This guide will teach you how to make roasted pumpkin seeds in an air fryer, including cleaning, seasoning, and roasting the seeds.

How to clean pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a nutritious snack, full of fibre, omega-6 fatty acids, protein and minerals. They are also inexpensive, especially if you have leftover pumpkins.

• Cut Open the Pumpkin: Cut a circle around the stem of the pumpkin, making sure the hole is large enough to fit your hand through. If you are not using the pumpkin for a Halloween decoration, cut it straight in half.
• Scoop Out the Seeds: Use a large metal spoon to scoop out the seeds and place them in a bowl. You will need to lightly scrape the sides of the pumpkin to release the seeds. This is a great activity to do with kids.
• Soak the Seeds: Fill the bowl with warm water and gently swish the seeds around, pinching them between your fingers to loosen and remove the pulpy fibres. The water will help break off most of the pulp.
• Rinse Using a Strainer: Once most of the pulp has been removed, dump the seeds into a strainer and rinse them under cold running water. This will get rid of any leftover pumpkin guts and the slimy coating on the seeds.
• (Optional) Boil Seeds in Salty Water: If you want your seeds to be savoury and salty, you can boil them in salted water before roasting. This helps the salty flavour penetrate the seeds. For every ½ cup of pumpkin seeds, use 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let the seeds simmer for about 10 minutes.
• Dry the Seeds: Spread the seeds out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them dry completely. You can use a paper towel to help absorb the water and speed up the drying process.

Once your seeds are clean and dry, they are ready to be seasoned and roasted!

How to season pumpkin seeds

There are many ways to season pumpkin seeds, and the best part is that you can get creative and experiment with different flavours. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Cleaning and Preparing the Pumpkin Seeds:

First, separate the seeds from the pumpkin's pulp and flesh. Rinse them in a colander or strainer to remove any remaining pulp. Then, lay the seeds on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to dry for at least 15 minutes. You can also leave them overnight for extra crispiness. Alternatively, boil the seeds in salted water for about 10 minutes to help remove the pulp and clean them thoroughly.

Seasoning Options:

• Salt and pepper: A classic combination that enhances the natural flavour of the pumpkin seeds.
• Trader Joe's Chili Lime seasoning: Adds an extra kick and a unique flavour profile.
• Garlic powder: For a savoury, slightly spicy kick.
• Smoked paprika: Gives the seeds a smoky, roasted flavour.
• Olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil: Using oil helps the seasonings stick to the seeds and enhances the crispy texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top of the seeds right after they come out of the air fryer so it melts and coats the seeds.
• Cinnamon and sugar: For a sweet and savoury treat.
• Taco seasoning: For a Mexican-inspired twist.
• Cajun seasoning: Adds a spicy kick to your seeds.
• Ranch seasoning: A crowd favourite that pairs well with the nutty flavour of the seeds.
• Chili powder: For a spicy, savoury option.
• Nutritional yeast: Gives the seeds a delicious, cheesy flavour.
• Curry powder: For an Indian-inspired flavour profile.

Coating the Pumpkin Seeds:

Once your seeds are clean and dry, place them in a medium-sized bowl. Add your desired oil, butter, or ghee, along with your chosen seasonings. Mix well until all the seeds are evenly coated. You can also add melted butter or ghee for a richer flavour.

Air Frying the Pumpkin Seeds:

Preheat your air fryer to 350-380°F (180°C). Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even roasting. Keep a close eye on the seeds during the last 5 minutes, as they can go from perfectly cooked to burnt very quickly.

Storing the Pumpkin Seeds:

Store your roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.

Air fryer temperature and time

The temperature and time for roasting pumpkin seeds in an air fryer vary depending on the quantity of seeds and the desired level of crispness. Here is a detailed guide:

Firstly, ensure your pumpkin seeds are completely dry before placing them in the air fryer. This is an important step as any excess moisture can affect the cooking time and crispness of the seeds.

When roasting a large batch of seeds, it is recommended to cook them in batches to ensure even roasting. For a batch of 2 cups of fresh pumpkin seeds, roast at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them after the 15-minute mark as they can quickly go from done to burnt.

For a smaller batch of 1 cup of pumpkin seeds, roast at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If you prefer your seeds with a lighter crisp, check them after 10 minutes to avoid overcooking. If you desire a deeper crisp, continue roasting for an additional 3-5 minutes after the initial 10-15 minutes.

It is worth noting that every air fryer is different, and the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the model and its heat distribution. Therefore, it is important to monitor your seeds closely during the roasting process to achieve your desired level of crispness.

How to store air-fried pumpkin seeds

Roasted pumpkin seeds can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry, for up to two weeks. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months. However, thawed pumpkin seeds may not be as crispy as fresh ones.

If you are planning to send roasted pumpkin seeds home with someone as a snack, it is recommended to advise them to consume the seeds within a few days or to refrigerate or freeze them if they are not going to be eaten right away.

It is important to note that oil can go rancid quickly, so it is best to keep the roasted pumpkin seeds dry and in an airtight container to extend their shelf life.

Pumpkin seed alternatives

If you're looking for alternatives to pumpkin seeds to roast in your air fryer, there are plenty of delicious options to explore. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Squash Seeds

If you're a fan of pumpkin seeds, you'll likely enjoy roasted squash seeds as well. Both butternut squash and spaghetti squash seeds can be roasted in a similar fashion to pumpkin seeds and offer a similar nutty taste.

Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are a great option for roasting in an air fryer. They have a similar texture to pumpkin seeds and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Try roasting them with the shell on or removing it beforehand—either way, they'll make a tasty and crunchy snack.

Nuts

Nuts are an excellent alternative to pumpkin seeds in the air fryer. Almonds, pecans, walnuts, and Brazil nuts are just a few examples of nuts that can be roasted to crunchy perfection. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combinations.

Legumes

Legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts (though technically a legume and not a nut!) can be roasted in the air fryer for a crunchy snack. Season them with your favorite spices, or even a sweet alternative like cinnamon and sugar.

Grains

Certain grains, such as quinoa and farro, can be roasted in the air fryer to add a crunchy element to salads or grain bowls. You can also try air-frying oats to make your own granola or oatmeal topping.

Remember, when roasting any of these alternatives, always keep an eye on your air fryer as cooking times may vary, and you don't want your snack to burn!

Frequently asked questions