high in other essential minerals including magnesium and zinc and a good source of vitamins K and E. The unique combination of nutrients can help to boost brain health and promote healthy brain aging. The magnesium is an important part of tons of reactions in the body and getting adequate amounts can help your body function efficiently. Plus, they are just darn tasty- I love it when things that taste so good are so good for me too! This is the quick and dirty, but still delicious, way to prepare squash seeds- if you have longer soak them and then use your oven or dehydrator to get them crispy.
Crispy Butternut Squash Seeds
1 Butternut Squash, Acorn Squash or Pumpkin
2 tsp Canola Oil
Salt and Pepper
Remove seeds from the cavity of the gourd. Rinse the squash gunk off in a colander or pick the seeds out of the gunk as best you can, they will loosen up after the next step so don’t stress if you don’t get it all.
Combine seeds and enough water to cover the seeds in a microwave safe bowl, microwave on high for 2 minutes then allow seeds to cool so you can handle them.
Drain seeds and discard squash guts. Spread a clean dish towel or a couple paper towels, add drained seeds and gently pat dry.
Heat oil in a saute pan. Add dry seeds and cook over medium high heat, stirring often until they are golden brown and beginning to pop. Remove from heat, sprinkle with salt and pepper and place back on heat, stirring constantly until they begin to pop again. Remove from heat and use as a garnish or allow to cool and use as a snack
**Notes:
There are so many different flavor combinations that would totally rock these seeds, here are a few ideas, but don’t let this limit you- try any of your favorites:
- Soak the seeds in vinegar and then cook as directed above for awesome salt & vinegar seeds
- Curry Powder
- Rosemary + Cayenne + Honey
- Cinnamon + Maple Syrup
- Garam Masala
- Chili Powder + Honey