Why toss those butternut squash seeds when you can turn them into a crunchy, nutrient-rich snack? Our recipe offers both oven and air fryer methods to suit your cooking style. Perfect for topping salads, enhancing oatmeal, or just snacking on the go. A zero-waste solution that's as tasty as it is smart!
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Clean Seeds: If you haven't already, make sure to clean the seeds thoroughly to remove any squash flesh. A quick rinse and pat dry will do the trick.
Season: In a mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash seeds, olive oil, and sea salt. If you're using additional seasonings, toss them in now. Mix well to ensure all seeds are evenly coated.
Spread: Pour the seasoned seeds onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer for even roasting.
Roast: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 10-15 minutes. Give them a good stir halfway through to ensure even roasting.
Check: Around the 10-minute mark, take one seed out and let it cool for a minute. Taste to see if it's crispy enough for your liking. If not, continue roasting for another 5 minutes.
Cool: Once done, remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They'll continue to crisp up as they cool down.
Store: Transfer the cooled roasted seeds to an airtight container. They'll stay fresh for up to a week, but we doubt they'll last that long!
Air Fryer Method
Preheat Air Fryer: First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange: Place the seasoned seeds in the air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking.
Air Fry: Set the timer for 10 minutes. Halfway through, pause the air fryer and give the seeds a good shake or stir to ensure even cooking.
Check: After 10 minutes, take out a seed and let it cool for a minute. Taste to see if it's crispy enough for you. If not, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cool Down: Once they're done, remove the seeds and let them cool. They'll get even crispier as they sit.
Video
Notes
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. A dash of cayenne for heat or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor can add a fun twist.Storage: These seeds are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.