Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Zesty, Crunchy Snack for Every Season

Name: Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Zesty, Crunchy Snack for Every Season
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups raw pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin); 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 lime (zest and juice); ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Posted on October 14, 2025

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If you’ve ever carved a pumpkin and tossed out the seeds, you’ve been missing out on one of nature’s most delicious and nutritious snacks. Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are a perfect combination of heat, tang, and crunch — making them a go-to treat for anyone who loves bold flavors. Whether you’re roasting pumpkin seeds after a fun day of carving jack-o’-lanterns or looking for a healthy alternative to chips, this easy recipe will become one of your fall favorites.

In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to prepare, season, and roast pumpkin seeds to perfection. You’ll also learn tips for getting that perfect crunch, ways to customize the flavor, and how to store them for later.

Why You’ll Love Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

These seeds aren’t just tasty — they’re also packed with benefits that make them worth the effort.

Bold Flavor: The combination of chili and lime gives you that irresistible balance of spicy and tangy.
Healthy Snack: Pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas) are rich in protein, fiber, magnesium, and zinc.
Easy to Make: All you need are a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes.
Versatile: You can snack on them, toss them on salads, or use them as a topping for soups.
Waste-Free: Roasting pumpkin seeds is a great way to use every part of your pumpkin after carving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful snack at home:

1 ½ cups raw pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon salt
1 lime (zest and juice)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

How to Prepare Pumpkin Seeds

Before seasoning your seeds, it’s important to clean and prepare them properly.

Step 1: Remove and Rinse the Seeds

After cutting open your pumpkin, scoop out the seeds and separate them from the pulp. Place the seeds in a colander and rinse under cold water until all the stringy bits are gone.

Step 2: Boil the Seeds (Optional but Recommended)

Boiling the seeds in salted water for 10 minutes before roasting helps them cook evenly and become crispier. Simply add the seeds to a pot of water with a tablespoon of salt, bring to a boil, then drain and pat dry.

Step 3: Dry the Seeds Thoroughly

Spread the cleaned seeds on a clean towel or paper towel. Pat them dry completely — moisture is the enemy of crispiness! You can even let them air-dry for 30 minutes if you have time.

How to Make Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Now that your seeds are ready, let’s get roasting.

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature ensures the seeds roast evenly without burning.

Step 2: Season the Seeds

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and lime zest. Add the pumpkin seeds and toss until they’re evenly coated.

For a stronger lime flavor, you can also squeeze in a bit of lime juice before roasting — but don’t overdo it, or the seeds might steam instead of crisp.

Step 3: Spread on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overlapping.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes — once they turn golden brown and smell nutty, they’re ready.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

When the seeds come out of the oven, immediately sprinkle them with a little extra lime juice and toss them lightly. This gives them that final burst of tangy flavor.

Let them cool completely — they’ll become crunchier as they cool.

Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Don’t skip drying: Damp seeds won’t crisp up properly.
Try different oils: Coconut oil gives a hint of sweetness, while avocado oil adds richness.
Adjust the spice: If you prefer mild heat, use less cayenne or skip it altogether.
Use lime zest for maximum flavor: The zest contains aromatic oils that intensify the lime taste.
Cool before storing: Store only after they’ve cooled completely to keep them crisp.

Flavor Variations to Try

Once you master the basic recipe, experiment with different flavors:

1. Sweet & Spicy

Mix chili powder with a touch of brown sugar and honey for a sweet kick.

2. Smoky BBQ

Add smoked paprika, cumin, and a hint of maple syrup for that barbecue flavor.

3. Garlic-Parmesan

Toss roasted seeds with garlic powder, parmesan, and a bit of butter after baking.

4. Cinnamon-Sugar

Perfect for fall — coat with cinnamon, sugar, and a little vanilla for a dessert-like version.

How to Store Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Once cooled, transfer the seeds to an airtight container or mason jar.

Room Temperature: Up to 1 week.
Refrigerator: Up to 1 month.
Freezer: Up to 3 months (store in a sealed bag and thaw before eating).

If they lose their crunch, you can reheat them in the oven at 300°F for 5–10 minutes.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are small but mighty when it comes to nutrition.

Rich in Protein: Great for muscle recovery and staying full longer.
High in Magnesium: Supports heart health and energy production.
Full of Antioxidants: Help reduce inflammation and protect your cells.
Good Source of Zinc: Supports immune function and skin health.
Healthy Fats: Provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

These benefits make them a smart snack for anyone looking to eat clean while still enjoying bold flavors.

When to Serve Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

These seeds fit almost any occasion:

Halloween Parties: A crunchy, healthy snack for guests.
Fall Gatherings: Pair them with cider or hot chocolate.
Movie Nights: Replace popcorn for a lighter alternative.
Lunchbox Snack: Great for kids and adults alike.
Post-Workout Fuel: A protein-rich recovery snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not drying the seeds enough: They’ll steam instead of roast.
Overcrowding the pan: Spread them out in a single layer.
Skipping the stirring: Stir every 10 minutes for even roasting.
Adding too much lime juice before baking: It can make them soggy.
Not seasoning enough: Don’t be shy — the chili and lime are the stars!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds?
Yes, but make sure they’re raw and unsalted. Adjust roasting time if they’re smaller than homemade seeds.

2. What if I don’t have fresh limes?
You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh lime zest adds a brighter flavor.

3. Are pumpkin seeds safe to eat with the shell?
Absolutely! Roasted shells become crunchy and easy to chew.

4. Can I use an air fryer?
Yes — roast them at 325°F for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Of course. Just make sure to use multiple baking sheets so the seeds don’t overlap.

6. How do I make them less spicy?
Reduce or remove the cayenne pepper. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.

Final Thoughts

Chili-Lime Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are one of those snacks that prove healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients — the perfect combination of spice and zest. Whether you’re carving pumpkins or simply craving a savory bite, this recipe is easy enough for beginners and delicious enough to impress seasoned home cooks.