Chili Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Zesty and Crunchy Snack

Written by Sarah Gardner

Pumpkin season is here, and if you're carving jack-o'-lanterns or making homemade pumpkin puree, don’t toss those seeds! This Chili Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds recipe turns an often-overlooked ingredient into a flavorful, crunchy snack. With a balance of smoky heat and tangy citrus, this is the best pumpkin seed recipe for anyone looking for something a little different. Perfect for munching, topping salads, or adding a crunch to your favorite dishes!

Chili Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 3

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Zester or Fine Grater

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups raw pumpkin seeds cleaned and dried
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional for a hint of sweetness

Instructions
 

Clean the Seeds

  1. After scooping out the seeds from a pumpkin, rinse them in a colander to remove pulp. Pat dry with a towel.

Season the Seeds

  1. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin seeds with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, lime zest, and lime juice. If you want a little sweetness, add honey.

Prepare for Roasting

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer.

Roast the Seeds

  1. Bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crispiness.

Cool & Enjoy

  1. Let them cool before eating—this allows them to get extra crunchy!

Pairings

Chili Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds make a great healthy snack on their own, but they’re also perfect sprinkled over salads, mixed into homemade trail mix, or as a crunchy topping for tacos. Pair them with a citrusy beverage like fresh limeade or a spicy margarita for a delicious flavor combo.

FAQs

1. Can I make this a sweet pumpkin seeds recipe instead?

Yes! Swap out the chili powder for cinnamon, add a bit more honey, and you’ve got sweet roasted pumpkin seeds instead.

2. What’s the best type of pumpkin to use?

Pie pumpkins or sugar pumpkins yield seeds with a great texture, but any pumpkin will work.

3. Can I store these for later?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. You can even try incorporating them into canning recipes like homemade granola mixes.

4. Are these good for clean eating?

Yes! These savory roasted pumpkin seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious snack option.

5. Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds?

Yes, but if they are already roasted, reduce the oven time by half to avoid overcooking.

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