Did you know those little white seeds tucked inside your juicy summer watermelon are nutritional powerhouses? Don’t toss them out! Roasting watermelon seeds transforms them into a crunchy, healthy snack. It’s surprisingly simple, and you’ll be amazed by the delightful nutty flavor.
This recipe is a fun way to reduce food waste and discover a tasty new treat. Roasting brings out the best in these often-overlooked seeds, and the process couldn’t be easier. Perfect for enjoying by the handful or sprinkling on salads and soups. Get ready to be wowed!
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple & Quick: Transform watermelon seeds into a tasty snack in minutes with minimal effort.
- Nutritious & Delicious: These crunchy roasted seeds are full of fiber and healthy fats, satisfying your cravings.
- Budget-Friendly: Don’t throw away those seeds! Make the most of your watermelon by turning a potential discard into a yummy snack.
Oven Roasted Watermelon Seeds
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 2 cups
Description
Turn discarded watermelon seeds into a delicious and healthy snack with this easy roasting recipe. A touch of olive oil and salt brings out their naturally nutty flavor, perfect for snacking or adding crunch to your meals.
Ingredients
- Watermelon seeds from one whole watermelon
- Olive oil
- Salt (fine sea salt or Himalayan pink salt)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and thoroughly dry watermelon seeds.
- Toss seeds with olive oil and salt.
- Spread seeds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool completely on the pan to crisp up.
Notes
Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or garlic powder. Adjust the amount of olive oil used to coat the seeds to your liking. Be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as it ensures even cooking and crispier seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Overview
- Watermelon seeds: From one whole watermelon, you’ll have a good amount, but you can easily adjust this recipe.
- Olive oil: Just a touch to coat the seeds, you could substitute with another neutral oil like avocado.
- Salt: Fine sea salt or Himalayan pink salt enhances the nutty flavor. Experiment with flavored or smoked salts, too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the watermelon seeds to remove any remaining watermelon flesh. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps them roast evenly.
Step 2: Oil and Season
Place the dried seeds in a medium bowl and drizzle with olive oil, just enough to coat each seed. Sprinkle with salt, about 1/2 teaspoon per cup of seeds. You can adjust salt to your taste.
Step 3: Roast
Spread the seasoned watermelon seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The seeds will turn golden brown when they’re roasted to perfection.
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the seeds cool completely on the pan. Once cool, they will crisp up further. Enjoy the toasted watermelon seeds as a snack or sprinkle them on salads, soups, or desserts for an added crunch.
Pro Tips
- Drying is Key: Thoroughly dried seeds will roast more evenly and become wonderfully crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal roasting.
- Flavor Adventures: Toss the roasted seeds in spices like cinnamon, paprika, or garlic powder after they cool for extra zest. Experiment with different flavors!
- For more snack ideas, check out our Desserts page.
Recipe Variations
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a touch of maple syrup and cayenne pepper to the oil and salt mixture before roasting.
- Savory Herb: Mix in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a savory twist.
- Everything Bagel: Coat the seeds in everything bagel seasoning after roasting.
- Looking for a complete meal? Explore our Dinner recipes for tasty dinner options.
Are watermelon seeds healthy?
Yes! Watermelon seeds are a good source of fiber, protein, healthy fats, and minerals. They can contribute to a healthy digestive system and provide other nutritional benefits.
Can I eat the black watermelon seeds?
Yes, black watermelon seeds (the mature kind) are edible and nutritious after roasting. In fact, many prefer the flavor of the roasted black seeds to the white ones.
How do I store roasted watermelon seeds?
Store the roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for a week or two.
Can I use a different type of oil for roasting?
Yes, you can use other oils like coconut, avocado, or grapeseed oil. However, these can sometimes change the final taste and texture of the roasted seeds.
Serving Suggestions
- Snack Attack: Enjoy the roasted seeds straight from the container for a quick and satisfying snack.
- Salad Topper: Sprinkle them over your favorite salad for extra crunch and flavor.
- Soup Garnish: Add a handful of roasted seeds to your soup for a delightful textural element.
- Trail Mix: Include them in your trail mix for a boost of nutrition.
- Explore our Breakfast recipes for more ideas.
Final Thoughts
Who knew something so small could be so delicious and versatile? Oven roasted watermelon seeds are a true treat, and once you start roasting them, you won’t want to stop! Share this simple recipe with your friends and family, and spread the word about this amazing snack.
Find more recipe inspiration on our Lunch page. Come chat with us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
