Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Pumpkin seeds: These are the edible seeds from a pumpkin, often found raw and unsalted in the bulk section or baking aisle of supermarkets.

Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps the seeds crisp up and adds a subtle flavor.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the pumpkin seeds and adds a touch of seasoning.

When preparing pumpkin seeds for air frying, ensure they are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Excess moisture can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy texture. Spread the seeds out on a clean towel and pat them dry before mixing with olive oil and salt. This step helps achieve a perfectly crunchy result.

• pumpkin seeds - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds have a similar size and texture, making them a great alternative for roasting.

• pumpkin seeds - Substitute with squash seeds: Squash seeds can be roasted similarly and provide a comparable flavor and crunch.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness and also has a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for roasting seeds.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor with a slightly different mineral profile.

• salt - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can add a savory depth of flavor while still providing a salty taste.

• Allow the pumpkin seeds to cool completely after air frying. This ensures they retain their crispiness and don't become soggy when stored.

• Transfer the cooled seeds to an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best to keep the pumpkin seeds fresh.

• Store the container in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid areas with high humidity or direct sunlight, as these can affect the texture and flavor of the seeds.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the pumpkin seeds. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible before sealing.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness. Frozen pumpkin seeds can last up to 3 months without losing their quality.

• When ready to enjoy, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. They can be enjoyed as is or given a quick reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunch.

• If you notice any change in smell or taste, it's best to discard the seeds, as this indicates they may have gone rancid.

• Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spread the pumpkin seeds in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
• Use a skillet on medium heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again.
• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Spread the pumpkin seeds in a single layer and heat on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they are warmed through.

• Air fryer: A countertop appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, perfect for roasting pumpkin seeds evenly.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the pumpkin seeds with olive oil and salt.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure 1 cup of pumpkin seeds accurately.

• Measuring spoon: Used to measure 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt precisely.

• Spatula: Handy for mixing the pumpkin seeds with the olive oil and salt in the bowl.

• Tongs: Useful for shaking the basket halfway through the air frying process to ensure even cooking.

• Cooling rack: Allows the roasted pumpkin seeds to cool down evenly after air frying.

Preheat while prepping: Preheat your air fryer while you mix the pumpkin seeds with olive oil and salt to save time.

Use parchment paper: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup and quicker transfer of seeds.

Batch cooking: If you have more than one cup of seeds, prepare multiple batches in advance and store them for later use.

Quick cooling: Spread the roasted seeds on a baking sheet to cool faster, so you can enjoy them sooner.