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Crunchy Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds – Healthy Snack

crunchy chili lime pumpkin seeds - featured image

These crunchy chili lime pumpkin seeds are the perfect healthy snack, combining warm chili, bright lime, and a satisfying crunch. Quick and easy to make, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (pepitas) (about 120g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (15ml)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (15ml)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse pumpkin seeds in a colander under cold water, picking out any stringy bits or debris.
  2. Spread the rinsed seeds on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry with another towel or paper towels. Let them air dry for 5-10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and optional sugar. Mix with a fork to remove clumps.
  4. Add the dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the dry spices. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lime juice. Toss with a spatula until every seed is evenly coated.
  5. Pour the seasoned seeds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread them into a single, even layer.
  6. Roast for 10 minutes. Remove the sheet, stir the seeds with a spatula, and spread them back into a single layer.
  7. Return to the oven and roast for another 8-12 minutes, until deep golden brown and fragrant. Watch closely after 8 minutes.
  8. As soon as the seeds come out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh lime zest over the hot seeds. Toss gently on the baking sheet.
  9. Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

For maximum crunch, ensure seeds are thoroughly dried before roasting. Add lime zest after roasting to preserve its bright flavor. Seeds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they soften, re-crisp in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, pepitas, chili lime, healthy snack, crunchy, gluten-free, low-carb, vegetarian