It’s that time of year, the pumpkins are finally ready for all things pumpkin! Fall is here and pumpkin seeds are in abundance, and we’ve rounded up 30 delicious and unique recipes to make the most of this tasty ingredient.
From savory snacks to sweet treats, these recipes are perfect for incorporating pumpkin seeds into your cooking and baking this season.
Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast option or a fun appetizer for your next fall gathering, we’ve got you covered.
There are so many great foods that can be made from the pumpkin, and even the seeds can be roasted for a healthy snack. You can find sweet, savory or even spicy to enjoy for a quick nibble.
So grab a handful of pumpkin seeds and get ready to discover some new and exciting ways to use this versatile ingredient. Let’s get started!
Is it OK to Eat Raw Pumpkin Seeds?
Yes, it is safe to eat raw pumpkin seeds. Raw pumpkin seeds are a good source of nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and minerals such as zinc and magnesium. They can be enjoyed as a healthy snack straight out of the bag, or added to trail mix, granola, or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.
Are you Supposed to Eat Pumpkin Seed Shells?
Yes, technically they are. But let’s be real, they’re not exactly the most palatable thing out there. Plus, the nutritional value is in the seed itself, not the shell. So, most of us remove the shells before chowing down on those delicious pepitas. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and want a little added crunch, go for it and munch on those shells.
Why do You Soak Pumpkin Seeds Overnight
Soaking the seeds allows them to absorb water, which can make them more plump and easier to digest. Additionally, soaking can help to remove any impurities or debris that may be on the seeds, as well as activate enzymes which can improve the nutritional value of the seeds. It also can make them easier to digest and neutralize enzyme inhibitors that can cause bloating or discomfort.
1. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Most of us will toss out the pumpkin seeds along with the slimy, stringy flesh of the pumpkin after we carve the scary faces. However, you need to roast the seeds for a great snack.
The process is simple and you will really be surprised at the great flavor. Try them with Worcestershire sauce and a little salt for a flavor explosion.
2. Pumpkin Seed Hummus
Hummus has become a go to for millions of people. There are so many versions of hummus you will get to enjoy.
You can use soaked pumpkin seeds combined with seasonings and other vegetables to make a great vegan hummus that is my new go to treat.
3. Salted Honey Flavored Pumpkin Seed Bars
Pumpkin treats will be found in abundance everywhere you look at this time of year. However, not everyone is going to have these great bars.
Using the pepitas, you can make a bar that is similar to granola bars, but oh so much better! The touch of honey along with the salt will give you a delight.
4. Butternut Squash Soup
Squash and pumpkin are part of the same family so we can’t ignore the flavor of a wonderful Butternut Squash soup in the list.
This savory soup is so easy to make and is garnished with Pepitas which amps up the delightful flavor combinations.
5. Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Who would have thought pumpkin seeds would make such a wonderful pesto? There is no reason to expect to use this in any other manner than normal pesto.
This Pumpkin Seed Pesto is phenomenal on fish or stirred into pasta. Imagine the options you have and enjoy.
6. Pumpkin Seed Milk
This fantastic delight tastes similar to Almond Milk. Your family may not even realize it is made with Pumpkin Seeds. You will though, and you will get to enjoy the smiles you see.
Making your family plant based milk is going to help them to feel healthier and also learn to enjoy variety. Super easy to make and it can be done in a short amount of time.
7. Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
As stated, pumpkin seeds make a quick, healthy snack option. These spicy pumpkin seeds that have been roasted will not only delight each person, they will be asking for more. The spice level is adjustable to your family’s tastes.
The best part is you will spend less than one half hour making this delicious treat.
8. Paleo Almond Bread with Pumpkin Seeds
Breads are not always considered one of the healthiest foods. However, this Paleo Almond Bread with Pumpkin Seeds is almost as healthy as it gets.
The flavor is so extreme and the bread is savory, holds together well and has a great texture. This is one you will fall in love with!
9. Super Seed Grain Free Crackers
The cost of gluten free crackers is expensive. So what if I tell you this is a great recipe for the best tasting gluten free crackers, yet it is much cheaper than going to the store and buying some of the same.
These crackers use only seeds rather than any form of grain. Super easy, super tasty and super healthy! Not to mention super yummy!!
10. Easy Two Ingredient Pepita Tofu
Pepitas are the pumpkin seeds out of the shells. They have a nutty flavor and are quite nutritious. I admit, this is not a recipe I came up with, however, it is more than worth sharing!
Green pumpkin seeds combined with Agar Agar powder will give you Tofu like no other! This recipe however, is much lighter than the original “pumfu” that has been made.
11. Pumpkin Maple Cornbread
Cornbread is a delicious flavor in itself, but to combine it with maple syrup and pumpkin seeds will make it even more tasty and delightful. It will take roughly 30 minutes to make this super moist cornbread that has a crispy crust and fluffy inside.
This is the perfect cornbread for the upcoming Holiday seasons!
12. Three Ingredient Pumpkin Seed Milk
There are so many flavors and options for milk today, but have you considered Pumpkin Seed milk? It is perfect to make smoothies with and will give you the pumpkin flavor you love.
When you combine pumpkin seeds with dates, cinnamon and water, there is no way to be wrong! All you need to do is put all ingredients in the blender, blend on high and then place into mason jars or another airtight container.
13. Pumpkin Seed and Chocolate Bliss Balls
Seeds, nuts and fruit covered in chocolate that tastes decadent and makes for a perfect gift for delivery personnel, office parties and any other Holiday parties.
No one is going to believe that they are loaded with healthy ingredients. All they will know is that they have never tasted treats so delicious before.
14. Asparagus with Toasted Seeds
Asparagus has always been one of my top choices for side dishes for virtually any meal. This recipe is going to up the flavor of simple roasted asparagus and send it to a heavenly blend of flavor combinations.
Simply combine pumpkin seeds with sesame seeds, along with sesame oil and olive oil, stir and roast for a new family favorite!
15. Creamy Zucchini and Pumpkin Seed Soup
Pumpkin Soup has been in my family as a favorite for generations, but when I saw that it could be combined with zucchini, I went wild! Two of the best flavors in the world blended into a soup for those chilly fall evenings, there can be nothing better.
All you need is to add onion and some seasoning and you are all set for a great experience.
16. Cranberry Pumpkin Seed Muffins
Not only do these muffins make a great snack, but they are also perfect for a healthy and tasty breakfast. They are moist, delicious and easy to make.
They have a crunchy top, filled with fruit flavors and loads of healthy seeds. No nuts will make them a perfect snack to send to school also.
17. Avocado and Pumpkin Seed Detox Smoothies
With all the fascination of detoxing your body, these smoothies make it tasty and super easy to do so.
Filled with flavor, and heart-healthy essential fats, these are healthier than eating plain fruit.
18. Charred Squash Tacos with Pumpkin Seed Salsa
This is definitely not Grandma’s Taco night! Change things up on Taco night for your family by making charred Squash Tacos and pairing them with Pumpkin Seed Salsa.
This salsa is made with many of the ingredients of common salsa but has a much earthier flavor and is satisfying.
19. Avocado Toast with Pumpkin Seeds
A delicious toast covered with Avocado slices and a Walnut cream similar to a nut butter, then topped with Pumpkin Seeds and the zest of a lemon. This gives a whole new flavor and fascination with Avocado Toast.
The pumpkin seeds enhance the flavor of the Avocado, just as the avocado emphasizes the flavor of the pumpkin seeds.
20. Roasted Pumpkin Seed Dip
This dip is going to become your new favorite for Holiday parties. Quite similar to hummus, this is much more flavorful and includes roasted tomatoes, chili peppers and onions.
This recipe comes from an ancient Mayan recipe, slightly modified to give more flavor.
21. Southern Belle’s Butternut Squash and Pumpkin Seed Agrodolce
This recipe is a true famous Southern style specialty. The butternut squash is seeded and sliced into ¼ inch slices then cooked with apple cider vinegar, cinnamon and sugar. Once this is cooked it is spread on the top of a slice of crusty bread covered with goat cheese.
Top the squash with pumpkin seeds and enjoy . This is a whole new flavor that is unexpected, but is sure to prove why it is so popular in the South.
22. Salsa Macha With Pumpkin Seeds And Mixed Chilli Peppers
A smoky and complex flavored salsa made with pumpkin seeds and chili peppers will enhance any night that you make tacos or similar Mexican foods.
Any dish is going to benefit from an earthy flavor that stems from the pumpkin seed salsa. The salsa still has common flavors of tomatoes and chilis, just enhanced with the great earthy pepita flavor.
23. Watermelon with Feta and Pumpkin Seeds
A colorful and refreshing summer salad that can be enjoyed year-round. This salad is quickly becoming a classic in its own right.
The sweet taste of the watermelon is enhanced by the slightly salty flavor of the Feta cheese. Even more so with the nuttiness from the pumpkin seeds.
Add in red onion slices and mixed greens to have the perfect meal.
24. Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Tart
Creamy and chocolatey is what makes this a perfect dessert, sweet with a nutty flavor of the pumpkin seeds.
This is not a flavor that one would expect in a chocolate dessert but ends up extremely pleased with the taste.
The pumpkin seeds are used to make creamy butter. This is an incredibly wholesome dessert.
25. Vanilla Tahini Pumpkin Seed Granola
Loaded with the much-loved flavors of vanilla and maple syrup, this granola is likely one of the easiest you will ever make. The granola is packed with nutrients and flavor that will keep you going from morning until midday, thus eliminating the desire for needless snacking.
These granola bars are perfect for women, with an abundance of zinc, which is one nutrient that women do not get enough of.
26. Millet with Mushrooms and Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are so nutritious and a great healthy option for many other snacks. They are also used to enhance the flavors of many main dishes, such as millet.
When combined with the whole grain millet, the pumpkin seeds and vegetables in the dish will help to combat colorectal cancers.
27. Broccoli and Pumpkin Seed Pesto with Pasta
Nutty and healthy with the great flavor of pesto that one expects, this recipe is a much needed improvement on so many levels.
Filled with Cheese, garlic and some great herbs, this dish is filling and delicious and takes just a short time to make.
28. Simple Plant Based Pumpkin Seed Pasta Salad
This is not just a colorful and healthy-looking pasta salad, it is refreshing and loaded with vitamins and nutrients.
This pasta and pumpkin seed salad makes a complete meal itself or the perfect side dish for any main course.
29. Acai Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Balls
As a perfect grab and head out the door snack, it can also double as a breakfast when you are on the run. Chocolate and pumpkin seeds are pretty much the perfect combination.
These seed balls are perfectly moist and will satisfy your sweet tooth with no added sugar. That makes this the best type of treat!
30. Pumpkin Seed Sauce Enchiladas
Enchiladas are one of foods that can be made as breakfast, lunch or dinner. Although the recipe reads and sounds quite complicated, it is totally the opposite.
The sauce is made with pumpkin seeds and comes out as a light green-colored enchilada sauce that tastes better than any store bought sauce you can think of.
However, the sauce can also be used to spoon over any of your favorite grilled meats.