Cajun Roasted Acorn Squash Seeds Clean Eats, Fast Feets from cleaneatsfastfeets.com
Introduction
Have you ever roasted acorn squash seeds? If not, it's time to give them a try! Acorn squash seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to salads, soups, and baked goods. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make! In this blog post, we'll show you how to roast acorn squash seeds step-by-step and provide some tips on how to customize the recipe to your liking.
Ingredients
To make roasted acorn squash seeds, you'll need the following ingredients:
1 acorn squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make roasted acorn squash seeds:
Step 1: Cut the Acorn Squash
Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and strings from the center of each half.
Step 2: Rinse the Seeds
Place the seeds in a colander and rinse them under cold running water. Use your fingers to remove any remaining strings or debris.
Step 3: Dry the Seeds
Spread the seeds out in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Pat them dry with another towel to remove any excess water.
Step 4: Season the Seeds
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and any additional seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or paprika. Drizzle the mixture over the seeds and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Roast the Seeds
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seeds out in a single layer. Roast the seeds for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Cool and Store the Seeds
Remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
Acorn squash seeds are a nutritious snack that can provide a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the key nutrients found in acorn squash seeds:
Protein: Acorn squash seeds are a good source of plant-based protein, with about 9 grams per 1/4 cup serving.
Fiber: Acorn squash seeds are a good source of fiber, with about 3 grams per 1/4 cup serving. Fiber can help promote digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Healthy Fats: Acorn squash seeds are a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.
Vitamins and Minerals: Acorn squash seeds are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, zinc, potassium, and vitamin E. These nutrients can help support overall health and well-being.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to customize the roasted acorn squash seeds recipe to your liking:
Spice it up: Try adding different spices to the seeds, such as cumin, chili powder, or curry powder, for a more flavorful snack.
Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter snack, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey to the seeds before roasting.
Use other squash seeds: While acorn squash seeds are delicious, you can also use seeds from other types of squash, such as butternut, pumpkin, or spaghetti squash.
Try different oils: If you don't have olive oil on hand, try using avocado oil, coconut oil, or sesame oil for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Roasted acorn squash seeds are a tasty and healthy snack that are easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can enjoy this nutritious snack anytime. Plus, with so many ways to customize the recipe, you'll never get bored! Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think.