The Nutritional Benefits And Delicious Recipes Of Acorn Squash Seeds

Dwy hesti

January 26, 2023

Introduction

Acorn squash is a winter squash that is rich in vitamins and minerals. While the flesh of the acorn squash is often eaten, the seeds are often overlooked. However, acorn squash seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that should not be missed. In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits of acorn squash seeds and provide some delicious recipes to try.

Ingredient

To make roasted acorn squash seeds, you will need: - 1 acorn squash - 1 tablespoon of olive oil - 1 teaspoon of salt - Optional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. Cut your acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. 3. Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove any pulp or bits of squash. 4. Spread the seeds out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the seeds and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. 6. Optional: add any additional seasonings you like such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. 7. Use your hands to mix the seeds around on the baking sheet to make sure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. 8. Roast the seeds in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. 9. Let the seeds cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

Nutrition

Acorn squash seeds are a rich source of nutrients including: - Protein: 1 ounce of roasted acorn squash seeds contains about 5 grams of protein. - Fiber: 1 ounce of roasted acorn squash seeds contains about 3 grams of fiber. - Healthy Fats: Acorn squash seeds are a good source of healthy fats such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. - Vitamins and Minerals: Acorn squash seeds are high in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

Recipes

Roasted Acorn Squash Seeds

- Ingredients: 1 acorn squash, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, optional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. - Instructions: see above

Acorn Squash Seed Butter

- Ingredients: 2 cups of roasted acorn squash seeds, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt. - Instructions: Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread your acorn squash seeds out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast the seeds in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Let the seeds cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a food processor. Add honey, coconut oil, and salt to the food processor and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Acorn Squash Seed Granola

- Ingredients: 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of roasted acorn squash seeds, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of salt. - Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, roasted acorn squash seeds, honey, coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined. Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the granola is golden brown and crispy. Let the granola cool before storing it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Acorn squash seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you roast them with your favorite seasonings, turn them into a creamy seed butter, or use them to add crunch to your granola, acorn squash seeds are a tasty and healthy addition to any diet. So next time you enjoy an acorn squash, don't throw away the seeds - give one of these recipes a try!