One of the best parts of the Halloween tradition of carving pumpkins is roasting the seeds! While you carve pumpkins with your family this year, scoop out the seeds and set them aside.
After you’re done carving, wash the seeds, and roast them in the oven. They make a delicious, healthy snack!
You can buy shelled pumpkin seeds year round- often labeled as “pepitas” in the store. Why not have fresh seeds? Right when the pumpkins are ready to be picked!
Nutrition Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds
- High protein content: about 9g per 28 grams of seeds
- High tryptophan content: an important amino acid which may reduce stress and improve sleeping patterns
- Low in carbohydrate content and a low glycemic index
- Good fiber content, especially when eaten straight out of the pumpkin
- Contain a variety of B vitamins and a bit of Vitamins C, E and K
- Have a beneficial level of magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, iron, copper, and zinc
Never roasted pumpkin seeds? Here are two great recipes to try!
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
BBQ Spiced Pumpkin Seeds
Be aware of how much butter, salt, or sugar some recipes may call for. You can follow a recipe, but adjust ingredients and quantities to work with your nutrition. Happy pumpkin picking!
