7 Awesome Things to Do with Pumpkin Seeds After Making Your Jack-o-Lantern

As autumn arrives, pumpkins take center stage, their vibrant orange hue gracing gardens and homes alike, with the iconic Jack-o-Lantern reigning supreme as a symbol of the season’s whimsical charm. While many pumpkins are indeed used to carve spooky faces for Halloween, the majority of pumpkins consumed annually aren’t actually carved into Jack-o-Lanterns.

While pumpkins are undoubtedly a tasty treat, it’s particularly disheartening to consider that each year an abundance of nutritious and flavorful pumpkin seeds are carelessly discarded, either in the compost heap or, even more distressingly, in the trash.

Whether you’re unsure how to utilize those seeds or simply want to take action while embracing a new experience, this is your ideal destination. Discover the versatility of pumpkin seeds, a byproduct of carving your Halloween masterpiece, as they can be used to create a multitude of tasty and creative treats.

Winter squash and pumpkin seeds are among the easiest to save for next year’s harvest. Since seeds from pumpkins are designed for dispersal, they’re naturally inclined to sprout in unexpected places if conditions are right? To preserve their viability, simply rinse the seeds briefly to remove any remaining pumpkin pulp, then spread them out in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet and place it in a sunny windowsill to air-dry. Consider storing these items in a secure container with a clear label for future reference.

With such a bounty of seeds, one pumpkin has far more than is required for planting purposes alone? With a surplus of over 11 seeds, one can confidently say that extra supplies are unnecessary.

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Roasting winter squash or pumpkin seeds makes for a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to dinner, these flavorful seeds are sure to please. The pumpkin seeds require an initial rinse to remove excess pulp, followed by gentle patting to dry. Tossing vegetables in a small amount of oil and seasoning with salt can bring out their natural flavours, making roasting a straightforward process. Whether roasted in the oven or cooked on the stovetop, it’s essential to stir the ingredients frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

As winter’s chill begins to settle in, autumn’s arrival signals a crucial period for birds seeking sustenance and wellness. Scores of bird species relish pumpkin seeds, rendering them ideal for repurposing into a pinecone bird feeder by rinsing, drying, and preserving this natural bounty. The pinecone is smothered in creamy peanut butter and generously covered in toasted pumpkin seeds. Birds love it.

Despite being self-evident, situations often unfold differently. While many people casually discard their pumpkin seeds after carving and opt for convenient store-bought varieties in their cooking, No way! Preserve the seeds of the wild carrot plant, also known as Queen Anne’s lace or wild caraway, for future use in recipes like oatmeal, granola, and baked goods. Can be used in salads or served as a garnish for soups and stews at a later time. Pumpkin seeds are a nutritious addition to many recipes, providing valuable nutrients and healthy fats.

Source: Original Recipes by Mashed/YouTube

Seeds offer a versatile alternative to traditional nut butters, yielding a rich, flavorful spread perfect for topping toast or adding texture to oatmeal. While sunflower seed butter has become a staple in many supermarkets, pumpkin seeds also possess the potential to create a delicious and nutritious spread when ground into a butter. Either roast them initially or employ their raw state to whirl up a scrumptious pumpkin seed butter effortlessly?

Pumpkin seeds can double as a charming decorative element, adding a rustic touch until their culinary or creative purpose is fulfilled. These natural treasures can be artfully combined with other autumnal discoveries, such as dried corn kernels and sunflower seeds, to create visually striking and tactilely engaging decorative bowls. This versatile mixture equally impresses when displayed in a glass vase alongside some dried flowers. Embracing the harvest’s bounty in a multifaceted celebration that delights both eyes and palate.

With an abundance of nutrients beneficial to the skin, pumpkin seeds can be effortlessly transformed into a rejuvenating face and/or body scrub. The dried seeds should be pulverized into a coarse powder and combined with a moderate amount of oil, such as coconut, olive, or pumpkin seed oil. This gentle exfoliant can be used as a scrub to thoroughly cleanse the skin, revitalizing it by delivering essential nutrients.

With the nutty flavor and satisfying crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds, elevate your autumnal dishes like pumpkin curry or roasted butternut squash soup to new heights whenever you please. Preserve the seeds diligently and maximize their potential for future use.