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Easy Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds: Kid-Approved Budget Snack

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Crunchy, flavorful air fryer pumpkin seeds that are budget-friendly and kid-approved. Perfect for using up pumpkin seeds from carving pumpkins, this quick and easy snack is packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 cups fresh pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon fine sea salt (for boiling)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Clean the seeds: Separate seeds from pumpkin pulp, rinse in a colander under cold water, and rub off any stringy bits.
  2. Boil the seeds: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups water and 1 tablespoon salt to a boil. Add seeds and boil for exactly 8 minutes. Drain.
  3. Dry the seeds: Spread boiled seeds on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat dry thoroughly and let air dry for a few minutes.
  4. Season the seeds: In a medium bowl, combine dried seeds with 1 teaspoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Toss to coat evenly. Add cayenne if desired.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Air fry the seeds: Place seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes, then shake the basket. Cook for another 2-3 minutes if needed, until golden brown and crunchy.
  7. Cool completely: Let seeds cool in the basket or on a plate for at least 10 minutes. They will continue to crisp as they cool.

Notes

Boiling the seeds is essential for a hollow, crunchy texture. Dry seeds thoroughly before seasoning to avoid steaming. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Let seeds cool completely before storing to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, easy pumpkin seeds, kid-friendly snack, budget snack, healthy snack, pumpkin seeds recipe

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