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Roasting butternut squash seeds is a delicious and nutritious way to make the most of this seasonal vegetable. Not only are these seeds a tasty snack, but they are also packed with nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and fiber. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of roasting butternut squash seeds step by step, so you can enjoy this healthy treat at home.

Ingredients

When it comes to roasting butternut squash seeds, you only need a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful and crunchy snack.

Ingredients List:

  1. Seeds from a 3 lb butternut squash (approximately 1/3 cup)
  2. Water
  3. Salt
  4. Olive oil or melted butter
  5. Seasonings of your choice (e.g., salt, smoked paprika, cinnamon-sugar, nutmeg, chili powder, cayenne)

Directions

Roasting butternut squash seeds may seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique, it can be a breeze. Follow these step-by-step directions to achieve perfectly roasted seeds every time:

Step 1: Extraction

  1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. Scoop out the kernels from a butternut squash and place them in a mixing bowl along with any attached pulp. 
  3. Cover the kernels with water and use your fingers to separate them from the fibrous threads of the squash. This is best done underwater to make the process easier.
  4. Drain the kernels in a colander and remove any loose orange threads. 

Step 2: Pre-Soaking

  1. In a pot, bring 1 quart of water and 1 tsp of salt to a boil.
  2. Add the kernels (up to 2 cups per quart of water) and boil for 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the kernels in a colander and pat them dry with a paper towel or cloth. 

Step 3: Seasoning and Roasting

  1. Transfer the kernels to a mixing bowl and toss them with olive oil or melted butter (about 1 tsp of oil or 2 tsp of butter per cup of kernels).
  2. Spread the kernels in a single layer on a baking sheet and season with salt and your choice of spices.
  3. Roast the kernels in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

Roasting butternut squash seeds is a simple and rewarding process that yields a delicious and healthy snack. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the crispy goodness of these seeds with your favorite seasonings. Whether you prefer them plain or with a spicy kick, roasted butternut squash seeds are sure to become a staple in your fall snacking routine.