Oven toasted squash seeds
*Toasted Squash Seeds
Save your seeds from any squash (I typically use pumpkins, acorn squash and butternut squash)
Place in a bowl and fill with cool water
The loose seeds should start to float to the top
Transfer seeds into another bowl, leaving the meat of the squash behind. You can either discard the meat or save it to use in a soup later.
You can easily pull seeds that are still attached to the stringy meat by squeezing with your fingers. The seeds should pop off easily.
Once all of the seeds are collected, give them another rinse to get off any extra meat.
Place in a bowl and leave to soak in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes
Drain the water
Allow the seeds to dry by laying them out on a paper towel (they will stick to the towel when transferring, but just lightly push them off)
Lay seeds out on a lined baking sheet
Sprinkle with salt to taste
Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes
Flip
Bake for another 4 minutes
Let cool and enjoy!
If you're looking for a nutritious and delicious way to use every part of your squash, oven toasted squash seeds are a perfect autumn snack to try at home. Not only are these seeds rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, but they're also incredibly easy to prepare and customize to your taste preferences. Start by harvesting seeds from your favorite squash varieties such as pumpkins, acorn squash, or butternut squash. Soak the seeds in cool water to help separate them from the flesh and strings, which makes the cleaning process easier. Removing as much of the squash meat as possible ensures your seeds toast evenly and achieve the best texture. The optional step of soaking seeds in lightly salted water enhances flavor and helps them crisp up during baking. After soaking and drying thoroughly on paper towels, spreading them evenly on a lined baking sheet will promote even roasting. Bake the seeds at 350°F, flipping partway through to toast both sides to a golden brown. Adjust the baking time if you prefer your seeds softer or crunchier, but typically 9 minutes total works well. To elevate the flavor, consider experimenting with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon sugar, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Toss the seeds with a small amount of olive oil before seasoning to help spices adhere and enrich the taste. Oven toasted squash seeds are an excellent and budget-friendly way to reduce food waste while enjoying a nutrient-packed treat. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, sprinkled over salads, or incorporated into soups for added texture. This simple recipe is a fantastic seasonal activity for families and offers a wholesome snack alternative to packaged foods. Plus, roasting seeds is fun and satisfying, connecting you to the autumn harvest in a delicious way. Give oven toasted squash seeds a try this season — you might discover a new favorite snack that's both healthy and flavorful!
