Pumpkin is not just for decoration
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EmailThere is more to pumpkins than just pie.
Pumpkins are beautiful decorations serving many uses. You can carve them, make pies and roast the seeds for a healthy snack. So how do you safely roast pumpkin seeds?
After you cut the top off the pumpkin, scoop the seeds out. Save them to create your own healthy treat. Steps to take are cleaning the seeds, drying them and roasting them.
To start the process, wash the stringy fiber off the seeds. Then dry the seeds in the sun or in a dehydrator at 115 – 120 degrees Fahrenheit for one to two hours. If you don’t have a dehydrator you can use the oven by turning it to warm and letting them dry in the oven for three to four hours. Stir the pumpkin seeds often to prevent scorching.
After the seeds have gone through the drying process roast them to give them a unique flavor. To roast the seeds you need to toss the dried seeds with oil and salt or a flavoring of your choice. Spread the seeds on a cookie or baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes. Take them out and let them cool and enjoy this healthy treat.
Michigan State University Extension recommends adding healthy snacks to your diet. Roasted pumpkin seeds can be a new, healthy snack for you to try in the New Year. You can add them on salads, or just as a healthy snack.
