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Chili Lime Roasted Pepitas – A Bold, Crunchy Snack You’ll Crave Daily

Looking for a healthy snack that’s crunchy, flavorful, and addictively delicious? These Chili Lime Roasted Pepitas check all the boxes. Whether you're prepping snack jars for the week or need something extra to top your soup or salad, this simple recipe packs a punch of zesty, savory flavor with every bite. Pepitas — the hulled seeds of pumpkins — are nutrient-dense and naturally rich in magnesium, zinc, and plant-based protein. Roasting them with a light coating of olive oil and a pop of chili lime seasoning transforms these tiny seeds into golden, toasty bites of perfection. They’re vegan, gluten-free, super snackable, and come together in just 15 minutes. Ideal for busy days, lunchbox boosts, or late-night cravings, these pepitas are the snack you didn’t know you needed — until now.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • With just three ingredients this recipe is incredibly simple — but the flavor payoff is huge.
Nuts & Seeds:
  • 4 oz raw pepitas about ¾ cup
Oil:
  • 2 tsp olive oil
Seasoning:
  • ½ tsp chili lime seasoning
  • Optional additions: A pinch of sea salt or a dash of smoked paprika can boost the flavor further if desired but the seasoning alone does the trick beautifully.

Equipment

  • You’ll only need a few kitchen basics to make this quick and easy snack:
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Airtight jar or container (for storage)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a nonstick surface.
Step 2: Mix the Pepitas
  1. In a small bowl, combine raw pepitas, olive oil, and chili lime seasoning.
  2. Stir until the seeds are evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
Step 3: Spread on the Baking Sheet
  1. Spread the seasoned pepitas in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet.
  2. Avoid overcrowding so they roast evenly.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  2. Watch closely during the final few minutes — pepitas go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Step 5: Cool & Store
  1. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
  2. Once cool, transfer to an airtight jar or container.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store cooled pepitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
For longer freshness, refrigerate and use within 1 month.
Reheating/Crisping Up:
If the pepitas lose their crunch, re-toast them on a baking sheet at 300°F for 5 minutes.
🥄 Variations
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Try one of these twists:
Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar with the chili lime seasoning.
Smoky Pepitas: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper roasted flavor.
Garlic Lime: Substitute chili lime seasoning with garlic powder and lime zest.
Lemon Pepper: Use lemon zest and cracked pepper for a tangy alternative.
Everything Bagel Pepitas: Toss with everything seasoning for a savory snack mix.
Cocoa Pepitas: For a dessert version, try a mix of cocoa powder and maple syrup (roast at a lower temp and monitor closely).
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What are pepitas?
Pepitas are the hulled seeds of pumpkins — flat, green, and naturally nutty. They differ from whole pumpkin seeds which still have the white shell.
2. Can I use whole pumpkin seeds instead?
You can, but they may require longer roasting and may be tougher to chew. Pepitas are preferred for snacking.
3. Where can I buy chili lime seasoning?
It’s often found in the spice aisle, or as popular blends in seasoning brands. You can also make your own with chili powder, lime zest, and salt.
4. Can I use another oil?
Yes, avocado oil or sunflower oil work well for high-heat roasting.
5. Are these spicy?
Mildly — depending on your chili lime blend. You can adjust by reducing seasoning or mixing in a bit of honey to tame the heat.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure to spread the seeds in a single layer on the baking sheet for even roasting.
7. What do they pair well with?
Top soups, grain bowls, yogurt, salads, or enjoy as a crunchy snack on their own.
8. Can I use flavored oils?
Yes! A hint of lime-infused olive oil can enhance the citrusy profile.
9. Can I roast them on the stove instead?
Yes. Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes until golden and fragrant.
10. Are pepitas healthy?
Yes! They’re high in healthy fats, protein, and key minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc.
🏁 Conclusion
These Chili Lime Roasted Pepitas are a total game-changer when it comes to healthy snacking. They’re crunchy, flavorful, packed with nutrients, and take just minutes to make. Whether you’re tossing them over a salad, stirring them into a soup, or munching them by the handful, these zesty little seeds bring big flavor in a tiny package.
So the next time you're craving something savory, salty, and just a little spicy, skip the chips and go for these roasted pepitas instead. Easy, crave-worthy, and so much better for you.