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Cozy Watermelon Seeds Backyard Challenge Recipe

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A quick and easy toasted watermelon seeds snack with smoky spice and a hint of sweetness, perfect for backyard hangouts and friendly competitions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw watermelon seeds (about 150g), rinsed and patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (3 g), adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (4 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1.5 g)
  • Fresh lemon zest from half a lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). If using an air fryer, set it to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Rinse and dry the watermelon seeds thoroughly to ensure even roasting.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the seeds with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat evenly. Hold off on adding lemon zest until after roasting.
  4. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet to avoid overcrowding.
  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes in the oven, stirring every 7-8 minutes until golden brown and nutty. If using an air fryer, roast for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
  6. Remove from oven and immediately zest fresh lemon over the hot seeds, tossing to combine.
  7. Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a bowl or airtight container.

Notes

Ensure seeds are thoroughly dry before roasting to avoid steaming. Stir seeds regularly during roasting for even cooking. Cooling seeds on the pan enhances crunchiness. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for milder or spicier flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; re-toast briefly to refresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon seeds, toasted seeds, backyard snack, easy recipe, smoky spice, healthy snack, low carb, gluten free

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/cozy-watermelon-seeds-backyard-challenge-recipe-easy-steps-to-win/