Also known as “pepitas,” in Spanish, pumpkin seeds were shipped to Europe and served in the Old World as a delicacy because of their chewy texture and their sweet, uniquely nutty flavor. Today, we are lucky enough to enjoy them as a snack every day of the year.

Keep your seeds in a container at all times – don’t let them dry out. They should be kept in the refrigerator or freezer, where they can last for several months! But hopefully, you’ll eat them well before that…

The Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Popping a handful in your salads or on your waffles will get you your necessary dose of vitamins A, B1, and B2.

One-third cup of seeds is about 100 calories. Add an entire cup to your breakfast smoothie or cereal every day and you’ll get a life-changing dose of phytosterols. In doing so, you will be integrating a diet that is more closely aligned with our ancestors and therefore, how our gut is designed to function.

Using Pumpkin Seed Oil In Your Beauty Routine

The oil from pressed pumpkin seeds is delicate and can be used for topical healing purposes, too. It’s no wonder Native Americans created so many natural remedies using this precious plant!

Ways To Use Your Leftover Pumpkin Seeds

Make Your Own Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder

This is no ordinary protein with processed preservatives. Just two tablespoons contain five grams of protein and pure magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium. Grind your raw or roasted pumpkin seeds in a food processor to make your own DIY protein powders. The result will be a vegan, gluten-free protein powder you can add to smoothies, oatmeal, and your baking.

Sprout Your Pumpkin Seeds

Did you know that sprouting increases the proportion of fiber and protein in seeds and many grains?

It also begins the digestion process for you, making them a treat your tummy will love. Soak your seeds in room temperature water in a sealed jar for 12 hours. Drain, rinse, and cover the jar with a piece of mesh screen and an elastic. Keep it in a cool dark place for 1-2 days. Rinse and dry them and they’re ready to eat!

Many seeds won’t sprout an actual root like other seeds, but the health benefits are there, nonetheless. And note: Be sure to be extremely sanitary when sprouting your seeds to avoid an accidental bacterial contamination.

Or, save your seeds and grow your own pumpkin for next year! You can plant them after the last frost (check here to see when that is!) if you live in a cool climate. They may take up a lot of space, as the vines tend to sprawl, but they’re easy to maintain.

Whip Up a Protein-Packed Pumpkin Seed Pesto

A traditional pesto contains pine nuts, one of the most expensive nuts in the world. (Pine nuts take ages to mature and are labor-intensive to harvest, too.) Try substituting roasted pumpkin seeds for pine nuts the next time you make pesto for a delicious treat that’s much easier on the wallet.