Most plant species can provide edible seeds, but there are also seeds that are not safe to eat.
In this article we will talk about butternut squash and its seeds. You will find out whether you can eat the seeds of butternut squash or they may be toxic, but first we will tell you something more about butternut squash.
More about Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a winter squash that has a bell-shaped fruit. A butternut squash has the same shape as a large pear and it has a light-orange flesh. The flesh of a butternut squash is loaded with vitamins A and C and it has a sweet nutty taste. The taste of a butternut squash is similar to the taste of a pumpkin, so butternut squash is sometimes called a butternut pumpkin.
But, what will you do when you are left with the seeds of a butternut squash? Can you eat them or it is best to toss them?
Are Butternut Squash Seeds Safe to Eat?
If you love eating pumpkin seeds, we have good news for you. Squash seeds are absolutely edible and they have a big nutritional value.
You can eat butternut squash seeds that are very similar to pumpkin seeds. Butternut squash seeds have almost the same nutrition value and flavor like pumpkin seeds. Butternut squash seeds are fibrous and nutty and they are rich in protein and beneficial fats. These fats are especially good for heart health. Butternut squash seeds are an excellent source of plant-based protein. These seeds are also rich in minerals, such as potassium, iron, zinc and calcium.
Also, these seeds contain vitamins and amino acids that are very important for your overall health. Butternut squash seeds are usually eaten roasted, but you can also add them to breads or cereals.
How Can You Eat Butternut Squash Seeds?
Butternut squash seeds have a nutty flavor and they can be used in many different recipes. Roasted butternut squash seeds are usually mixed with olive oil and salt. This can be a healthy snack that both adults and kids like. Only a handful of these seeds will provide you a lot of nutrients. You should rinse and dry the seeds over night and then sprinkle them with salt and olive oil. Roast these butternut squash seeds for one hour. After that your butternut squash seeds are ready to eat and you can enjoy in their nutty flavor and crispiness.
Also, roasted butternut squash seeds are delicious when they are sprinkled with a cayenne and a little salt. You can also prepare a very delicious pesto with butternut squash seeds, which is perfect for people with nut allergies. Butternut squash seeds can be a great addition to salads and oatmeal. You can also hull the squash seeds after roasting and boiling and use their kernels that are called pepitas. These kernels can be used in salads, soups and many desserts.
If you don’t want to eat your roasted squash seeds right now, you can simply store them. It is best to store these seeds at room temperature. This way they will last for up to 3 months. If you store butternut squash seeds in the fridge or in the freezer, they will stay fresh for up to a year.
Summary
Now when you know that butternut squash seeds are edible and also very healthy, we are sure that you won’t toss them.
As you have seen, you can prepare these seeds in many different ways. They are very delicious and they will provide you a great nutritional value.
