Roasted Pumpkin Seeds (Bedtime Snack)
 Description
Crunchy, savoury, and deeply satisfying, roasted pumpkin seeds make a simple nighttime snack. They’re lightly seasoned, oven-crisped, and naturally rich in minerals—perfect when you want something salty but not heavy before bed.
 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds (raw, shelled or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
 Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Set to 180°C (350°F)
2. Prepare Seeds
- If using fresh seeds, rinse well and remove pulp
- Pat completely dry (very important for crispiness)
3. Season
- Toss seeds with olive oil, salt, and spices until evenly coated
4. Roast
- Spread in a single layer on a baking tray
- Roast 10–15 minutes, stirring once, until golden
5. Cool & Serve
- Let cool for a few minutes—they’ll crisp up more as they sit
- Notes & Texture Tips
- Wet seeds = chewy, not crunchy → dry thoroughly
- Smaller seeds roast faster—watch closely near the end
- They continue crisping after removing from the oven
 Pro Tips
- For extra crunch, roast at 170°C a bit longer (low & slow method)
- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat
- Try cinnamon + a touch of honey for a sweet version
- Store in an airtight container to keep crisp
 Servings
- Makes about 1 cup
- Serves 2–3 people
 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 150–180
- Protein: 7–9g
- Carbs: 3–5g
- Fat: 12–14g
- Fiber: 1–2g
 Benefits
- pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium → supports relaxation and sleep
- Good source of plant protein and healthy fats
- May help keep you full and reduce late-night snacking
 Q&A
Can I use seeds straight from a pumpkin?
Yes—just clean and dry them thoroughly before roasting.
Why aren’t my seeds crunchy?
They likely had too much moisture or were undercooked.
Can I make them in an air fryer?
Yes—cook at 160–170°C (320–340°F) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
How long do they last?
Up to 1 week in an airtight container at room temp (longer refrigerated).
Are they really good before bed?
They’re a light, protein-rich snack—but portion control matters since they’re calorie-dense.