Vegan Recipes

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe with Ingredient

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds are a delicious and healthy snack, perfect for autumn or any time of year. To prepare them, start by scooping the seeds out of a fresh pumpkin and rinsing them thoroughly to remove any remaining pulp. After drying the seeds, toss them with a bit of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or cinnamon for a sweet touch.

Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even roasting. The result is a batch of crispy, golden-brown pumpkin seeds that are rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. The air fryer method is quick and convenient, yielding perfectly roasted seeds with minimal effort and cleanup. Enjoy them as a snack on their own or as a crunchy topping for salads and soups.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a nutritious and delicious snack that can be enjoyed year-round. This air fryer recipe makes them crispy and flavorful without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditionally roasted seeds. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a crunchy, savory snack that can also be added to salads, soups, or granola.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 130 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet (optional, for drying seeds)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any preferred cooking oil)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Seeds: If using fresh pumpkin seeds, scoop them out of a pumpkin, remove the pulp, and rinse them thoroughly. Spread the seeds out on a baking sheet and let them dry completely. You can also pat them dry with a towel to speed up the process.
  • Season the Seeds: In a mixing bowl, toss the dry pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, and any additional seasonings you like (garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper).
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Air Fry the Seeds: Place the seasoned pumpkin seeds in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the seeds as they can go from perfectly roasted to burnt quickly.
  • Cool and Serve: Once the seeds are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

Additional Notes for Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

  1. Choosing the Seeds:
    • You can use seeds from any type of pumpkin, but the seeds from sugar pumpkins are typically smaller and more tender.
    • Pre-packaged raw pumpkin seeds from the store are a convenient option if you don't have a fresh pumpkin.
  2. Drying the Seeds:
    • It's crucial to dry the seeds thoroughly before seasoning and air frying to ensure they turn out crispy. Any excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
  3. Seasoning Variations:
    • Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings based on your preference. Some popular options include:
      • Sweet: Cinnamon and sugar
      • Spicy: Cayenne pepper or chili powder
      • Herby: Italian seasoning or rosemary
  4. Cooking Time:
    • Cooking time can vary depending on the size and moisture content of the seeds, as well as the make and model of your air fryer. Check frequently towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
  5. Shaking the Basket:
    • Shaking the basket every 5 minutes helps to ensure the seeds cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
  6. Storage:
    • Once cooled, store the pumpkin seeds in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. They can stay fresh for up to a week.
  7. Serving Suggestions:
    • Enjoy the seeds on their own as a snack or sprinkle them over salads, soups, oatmeal, or yogurt for added crunch and nutrition.
  8. Nutritional Benefits:
    • Pumpkin seeds are a great source of antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, immune support, and overall wellness.
  9. Oil Alternatives:
    • For a lower-calorie option, you can use a cooking spray instead of olive oil.
    • For different flavor profiles, try using flavored oils like garlic-infused olive oil or chili oil.
  10. Allergy Note:
    • If you have any nut allergies, ensure that the pumpkin seeds are processed in a facility that does not handle nuts to avoid cross-contamination.
By following these notes and the recipe, you'll be able to make perfectly crispy and flavorful air fryer pumpkin seeds every time. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Here we have covered how to air fry pumpkin seeds in detail:

Ingredient

Here is a detailed ingredient list for making air fryer pumpkin seeds:

  • Pumpkin Seeds: Seeds from one medium-sized pumpkin (about 1 to 1.5 cups of seeds)
  • Olive Oil: 1 to 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, or to taste

Optional Seasonings:

  • Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, for a spicy kick
  • Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, for a sweet variation
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon, if using cinnamon for a sweet touch

Ingredient

These ingredients will help you achieve flavorful and crispy pumpkin seeds using an air fryer. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Instructions for Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds:

Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds:

  • Cut open the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds using a spoon.
  • Place the seeds in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove any pulp and strings.
  • Pat the seeds dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensure they are as dry as possible to help them roast evenly.

Pumpkin Seeds

Season the Seeds:

  • Place the dried seeds in a bowl.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
  • Add salt to taste and any other desired seasonings. Toss again to distribute the seasonings uniformly.

Season the Seeds

Preheat the Air Fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Cook the Pumpkin Seeds:

  • Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
  • Cook the seeds at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Shake the basket or stir the seeds halfway through the cooking time to promote even roasting.

how to air fry pumpkin seeds

Check for Doneness:

  • After 10 minutes, start checking the seeds. They should be golden brown and crispy. If they need more time, continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments until they reach the desired level of crispiness.

Cool and Store:

  • Once done, remove the seeds from the air fryer and let them cool on a baking sheet or plate.
  • Store the cooled seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips:

  • For an extra flavor kick, you can experiment with different seasonings such as chili powder, cumin, or even a bit of sugar for a sweet version.
  • Make sure the seeds are as dry as possible before seasoning and cooking to ensure they roast properly.

How To Dehydrate Pumpkin Seeds

Here are the steps to dehydrating pumpkin seeds:

Scoop and Rinse:

  • Scoop out the pumpkin seeds from a fresh pumpkin.
  • Place the seeds in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove any pulp and strings.

Dry the Seeds:

  • Spread the rinsed seeds on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
  • Pat them dry thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible.

Optional Seasoning:

  • If desired, toss the dry seeds with a small amount of oil and seasonings (e.g., salt, garlic powder) for added flavor.

Preheat the Dehydrator:

  • Set your food dehydrator to 115°F to 125°F (45°C to 52°C).

Arrange the Seeds:

  • Spread the seeds in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Ensure they are not overlapping for even drying.

Dehydrate the Seeds:

  • Place the trays in the dehydrator.
  • Dehydrate at 115°F to 125°F (45°C to 52°C) for 10-14 hours, or until the seeds are completely dry and crispy.

Check for Doneness:

  • The seeds should be dry and crunchy. If they are still chewy, continue dehydrating in 1-hour increments until fully dried.

Cool and Store:

  • Remove the seeds from the dehydrator and let them cool completely.
  • Store the cooled seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a few weeks.

By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly dehydrated pumpkin seeds that are ready to enjoy as a healthy snack!

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

How Long to Boil Pumpkin Seeds

Boiling pumpkin seeds is a simple process that helps to clean and prepare them for roasting.

Materials Needed:

  • Fresh pumpkin seeds
  • Large pot
  • Water
  • Salt (optional)
  • Colander
  • Towel or paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Remove Seeds from Pumpkin:
    • Cut open the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon.
  2. Separate Seeds from Pulp:
    • Place the seeds and pulp in a large bowl of water.
    • Use your hands to separate the seeds from the pulp. The seeds will float to the top while the pulp sinks.
  3. Rinse the Seeds:
    • Pour the seeds into a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any remaining pulp.
  4. Measure Water and Seeds:
    • Measure 1 cup of pumpkin seeds.
    • For every cup of seeds, measure 2 cups of water.
  5. Boil Water:
    • Pour the measured water into a large pot.
    • Add a pinch of salt to the water if desired.
    • Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  6. Add Seeds to Boiling Water:
    • Once the water is boiling, add the pumpkin seeds to the pot.
  7. Boil the Seeds:
    • Reduce the heat to a simmer.
    • Boil the seeds for about 10 minutes.
    • Stir occasionally to ensure even boiling.
  8. Check for Doneness:
    • After 10 minutes, the seeds should appear slightly translucent.
    • Bite into a seed to ensure it is tender. If not, boil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  9. Drain the Seeds:
    • Once boiled, pour the seeds into a colander to drain the water.
  10. Dry the Seeds:
    • Spread the boiled seeds on a clean towel or paper towels.
    • Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
    • Let them air dry for a few minutes if you plan to roast them immediately.

Next Steps (Optional Roasting – Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds):

If you plan to roast the seeds, here are the additional steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Season the Seeds: Toss the dried seeds with a small amount of olive oil and salt, or any seasoning of your choice.
  3. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast the Seeds: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Cool and Enjoy: Let the roasted seeds cool completely before eating or storing.

By following these steps, you can boil pumpkin seeds to prepare them for roasting or use them in various recipes. Boiling helps to clean the seeds and can make them easier to digest.

Sweet Pumpkin Seed Recipe Air Fryer

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Clean the Seeds:
    • Remove seeds from the pumpkin and clean off any pulp.
    • Rinse seeds under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Sweet Coating:
    • In a bowl, combine the melted butter or oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
    • Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Coat the Pumpkin Seeds:
    • Add the cleaned and dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the sweet coating.
    • Toss the seeds until they are evenly coated.
  5. Arrange in Air Fryer:
    • Place a piece of parchment paper or a silicone liner in the bottom of the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
    • Spread the coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  6. Air Fry the Seeds:
    • Cook the seeds at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
    • Shake the basket every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  7. Check for Doneness:
    • After 10-12 minutes, the seeds should be golden brown and crispy.
    • If they need more time, cook in additional 2-minute increments, checking frequently to avoid burning.
  8. Cool and Enjoy:
    • Remove the seeds from the air fryer and let them cool completely.
    • Once cooled, the seeds will become even crunchier.
  9. Store Properly:
    • Store any leftover seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Nutrition

  • Calories: 126 kcal
  • Total Fat: 5.5 g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.1 g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.1 g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 1.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 4 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1.7 g
    • Sugars: 0 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Vitamin A: 12 IU
  • Vitamin C: 0.5 mg
  • Calcium: 15 mg
  • Iron: 2.9 mg
  • Potassium: 232 mg
  • Magnesium: 151 mg

Nutritional Benefits:

  1. Healthy Fats: Pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy fats, including polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and may reduce cholesterol levels.
  2. Protein: They provide a good source of plant-based protein, important for muscle repair and growth.
  3. Fiber: Pumpkin seeds are a decent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
  4. Micronutrients: They are packed with essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc, which play roles in various bodily functions including bone health, immune support, and energy production.
  5. Antioxidants: Pumpkin seeds contain antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help protect cells from damage by free radicals.

Considerations:

  • Portion Size: While nutritious, pumpkin seeds are calorie-dense, so enjoy them in moderation.
  • Seasonings: Pay attention to added seasonings and oil during preparation, as they can affect the overall nutritional profile.
  • Allergens: Some individuals may have allergies to seeds, so be cautious if you have any known allergies.

 

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Q: What temp to cook pumpkin seeds?

A: Cook pumpkin seeds at 350°F (175°C)

Q: How to fry pumpkin seeds?

A: To fry pumpkin seeds, heat oil in a pan over medium heat, add the seeds, and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.

Q: How to bake pumpkin seeds in Air Fryer?

A: To bake pumpkin seeds in an air fryer, toss them with oil and seasoning, then cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Q: How to dry pumpkin seeds fast?

A: To dry pumpkin seeds fast, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 150°F (65°C) for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Q: How to peel pumpkin seeds?

A: Here are simple steps to peel pumpkin seeds:

  1. Separate Seeds from Pulp:
    • Scoop out the seeds from the pumpkin using a spoon.
    • Place them in a bowl of water and separate the seeds from any pulp or stringy fibers.
  2. Boil the Seeds:
    • Fill a pot with water and add a generous amount of salt.
    • Bring the water to a boil and add the pumpkin seeds.
    • Boil for 10-15 minutes. This helps soften the outer shell.
  3. Cool the Seeds:
    • Drain the seeds in a colander and rinse them under cold water to cool them down.
  4. Peel the Seeds:
    • Gently press each seed between your thumb and forefinger to squeeze out the inner kernel from the shell.
    • The shell should easily slip off, leaving the inner kernel.
  5. Dry the Seeds:
    • Once peeled, spread the seeds on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to dry them completely.
    • You can also pat them dry gently to remove any excess moisture.
  6. Use or Store:
    • Use the peeled pumpkin seeds immediately in recipes or roast them for snacking.
    • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

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