Nutty flavored, mild sweetness and crispy, are what describe the taste of baked or roasted pumpkin seeds. No doubt, pumpkin seeds are found in the food store, but preparing them on your own is also easy and fun. You can cook pumpkin seeds anytime, as they are available throughout the year. And, the seeds are full and more tasty in the fall season, when they are available in abundance. Mentioned below are tips to clean them and cooking methods.

Prepare Pumpkin Seeds
After removing the seeds from the pulp of the pumpkin, you need to clean them before cooking. You can rinse pumpkin seeds under running water and spread them on a paper for drying. Or else, simply wipe the seeds with a damp kitchen towel and dry them. In both the options, make sure that the pumpkin seeds are free of flesh or pulp. In case you prefer a salty taste, boil the pumpkin seeds with a pinch of salt and simmer for about 10 minutes. Strain through a sieve and allow them to dry.

Methods for Cooking Pumpkin Seeds
Once you dry and prepare pumpkin seeds, you can cook them. Following are ways on how to cook pumpkin seeds in the oven, skillet and microwave:

Roasting in Oven
Preheat oven to about 250 degrees Fahrenheit and lay a non-stick foil over the baking sheet.
In a bowl, add dried pumpkin seeds, olive oil, butter (optional) and toss well.
Sprinkle salt and if desired, add seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder and cayenne pepper.
Toss the pumpkin seeds, so that the oil and seasoning are spread evenly.
Bake the seasoned pumpkin seeds in the set temperature for about 1 hour.
Remember to toss the seeds after every 15-20 minute interval.
Remove the roasted pumpkin seeds, cool down and serve.
Toasting in Skillet
Heat a thick skillet over medium heat and melt two teaspoons butter.
Add pumpkin seeds and toast for about 5-6 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
When the seeds are cooked well, they will turn brown in color.
Transfer the toasted pumpkin seeds into a platter and wipe excess oil with a tissue paper.
Sprinkle salt and seasonings and have them.
Cooking in Microwave
In a microwave-safe dish, melt 2 tablespoons of margarine or butter, as per your choice.
Spread the pumpkin seeds in one layer and sprinkle your favorite seasonings.
Place the pumpkin seeds in microwave and set the time at 8 minutes.
Stir the pumpkin seeds after every 2 minute interval and microwave till they turn golden color.
Cool down the cooked pumpkin seeds and serve.