Pumpkin Seed Snacks

Photo: Flickr

Many of you will find yourself going through (in my opinion) the semi-unpleasant "ritual" of carving the pumpkin in the near future. This is usually done to appease your child's need to "create". In translation......this means they will draw the face....period. Then? Well, you find yourself elbow-deep in pumpkin innards as your child heralds "yucky" and "gross", subsequently backing out of the allegiance they had previously (and gleefully I might add) signed up for. My advice? Don't let them off that easy!

Photo: Flickr

Even though at present time the smell is making them gag, tell them to "fear not" for Jack's job is to scare away ghosts and goblins, not little boys and girls! By explaining the seeds that lie within can be transformed into an all natural, tasty snack with a deliciously nutty flavor, you may even convince them to help! (But shh, you will "kill" the fun if they find out pumpkin seeds are packed with fiber and protein, are an excellent source of zinc, magnesium, manganese, iron, and monounsaturated fat.)

Children can help to prep the pumpkin seeds by separating the seeds from the stringy pumpkin insides. Place the seeds in a bowl or colander and rinse to remove any remaining pumpkin goo. Have them lay seeds out on paper towels to dry. Now, on to the fun part......

From Allrecipes.com, there are many ways to "dress up the pumpkin seed".
Any of these delicious recipes are sure to please:

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Spiced Pumpkin Seeds
Taco Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon and Salt
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds with Sugar and Spice

*Important tip: Carve your pumpkin the night before Halloween. Jack-0-lanterns can age very rapidly. Instead of a Jack-0-lantern you will end up with Jack-o-Lemon!

Have fun!