Spicy Toasted Pumpkin Seed Delights
These Spicy Toasted Pumpkin Seed Delights are a crunchy, irresistible snack that will take you back to those spirited teen parties. A twist on my mom’s classic recipe—once cheekily named ’cockroach crunchies’—these pepitas not only embody a fun Halloween vibe but also provide a satisfyingly light and addictive munching experience. With a perfectly balanced mix of spices, including a hint of cayenne for those who like it spicy, you can customize the seasoning to match your taste. Perfect for snacking during movie nights or as an impressive addition to any gathering, these delightful seeds are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
6
Servings
47
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oil
1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic
1 clove (Slightly smashed)
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
1/2 cup (Raw and shelled)
Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (To taste (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by heating a cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot.
2
Add the teaspoon of oil to the skillet and introduce the smashed garlic clove. Swirl the skillet to coat the surface evenly with oil.
3
Once the garlic begins to turn golden and aromatic, carefully remove it from the skillet. You can discard it or, if you wish, mash it with butter for a tasty bread spread.
4
Add the pepitas to the skillet, making sure they are well-coated with the infused oil. Stir or shake the pan gently to ensure even coverage.
5
As the pepitas heat, you'll hear them begin to pop and dance energetically. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
6
When most of the pepitas have popped, remove the skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle your chosen seasonings (salt, cumin, paprika, and cayenne) over the seeds. Toss them thoroughly to ensure an even coating.
7
To serve, use tiny muffin cups (holding about 1 tablespoon each) to present the toasted pumpkin seeds, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
Nutrition Information
3g
Fat
2g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Toasted Pumpkin Seed Delights?
They are a crunchy, irresistible snack made from toasted pepitas with a balanced mix of spices like cumin and paprika.
Are these pumpkin seeds vegan?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as vegan and contains only plant-based ingredients.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 47 calories.
What type of skillet is recommended for this recipe?
A cast iron skillet is recommended for even heating.
How long does it take to toast the pepitas?
Once they begin to pop and dance, it takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
What spices are used to season the seeds?
The seasonings include kosher salt, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Is this snack very spicy?
It has a hint of spice from the cayenne, but the seasoning can be customized to your taste.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic clove should be slightly smashed before being added to the oil.
What should I do with the garlic after it turns golden?
You should remove it from the skillet; you can discard it or mash it with butter for a bread spread.
What are pepitas?
Pepitas are raw and shelled pumpkin seeds used in this recipe.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Is this considered a healthy snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy and easy snack option.
Can I serve these at a Halloween party?
Absolutely, they have a fun Halloween vibe and were originally known as 'cockroach crunchies'.
How are these seeds best served?
They are best served in tiny muffin cups that hold about 1 tablespoon each.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 3 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
There are 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in this snack?
Each serving provides 2 grams of protein.
Is the cayenne pepper mandatory?
No, the cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted to taste.
When do I add the salt and spices?
Add the seasonings immediately after removing the skillet from the heat.
How do I know when the pepitas are done?
They are done when most of the seeds have popped and danced energetically in the pan.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe falls under the Lunch/Snacks category.
How much oil is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of oil.
Can kids eat these seeds?
Yes, they are a delightful snack for both kids and adults.
What is the texture of the finished product?
The finished seeds are light, crunchy, and addictive.
What is the preparation for the pepitas?
The pepitas should be raw and shelled.
Can I use these seeds for movie nights?
Yes, they are perfect for snacking during movie nights or gatherings.
How much cumin is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin.
How much paprika is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
What is the source of this recipe?
It is a twist on the creator's mom's classic recipe.
How do I ensure the seeds are evenly coated?
Stir or shake the pan gently while heating and toss thoroughly after adding seasonings.