Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Flavor Explosion!

Tired of bland, uninspiring guacamole that disappears into the background of your meal? This guacamole with roasted pumpkin seeds brings a textural contrast and flavor explosion that will elevate your snack game instantly!

Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share this vibrant guacamole recipe with you. During my culinary adventures across Mexico, I discovered how toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) add an incredible dimension to traditional guacamole. There’s something magical about the way the creamy avocado pairs with the nutty crunch of roasted pumpkin seeds it creates a symphony of textures that keeps you coming back for more!

In this recipe guide, I’ll walk you through selecting perfect avocados, mastering the art of roasting pumpkin seeds, and combining these ingredients to create a show-stopping appetizer. You’ll also find serving suggestions, storage tips, and creative variations to make this recipe your own.

Why This Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe Works

  • Uses perfectly ripened avocados for ultimate creaminess
  • Roasted pumpkin seeds add unexpected crunch and nutty flavor
  • Ready in just 15 minutes for last-minute entertaining
  • Versatile enough for taco nights, parties, or healthy snacking
  • Naturally gluten-free and packed with healthy fats

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Best Avocados for Guacamole

The foundation of exceptional guacamole begins with selecting perfect avocados. Look for Hass avocados with dark, almost black skin that yields slightly to gentle pressure. For the best guacamole with roasted pumpkin seeds, you want avocados that are ripe but not overripe they should feel somewhat soft but not mushy.

Buying Tips

When shopping for avocados, press gently near the stem end. If it gives slightly, it’s ready to use. If you’re planning ahead, buy firmer avocados and let them ripen at room temperature for 2-3 days. For the pumpkin seeds, raw, unsalted pepitas work best as you’ll be seasoning them yourself.

Fresh Ingredient Substitutions

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley or a mixture of fresh herbs. No lime? Lemon juice works as a worthy substitute. Can’t find fresh jalapeños? A dash of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños will provide that necessary kick.

Ingredients & Prep for Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Guacamole Base Essentials

  • 3 ripe Hass avocados, halved and pitted
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 2 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
  • 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Pumpkin Seed Preparation

  • 1/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Pinch of salt

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small baking sheet
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Pre-Cooking Prep for Guacamole with Pumpkin Seeds

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) for roasting the pumpkin seeds.
  2. Dice all your vegetables and set aside in separate bowls.
  3. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl.

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds for Guacamole

  1. In a small bowl, toss raw pumpkin seeds with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt until evenly coated.
  2. Spread seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant.
  4. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Making the Guacamole Base

  1. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the avocado to your desired consistency (I prefer leaving some chunks for texture).
  2. Add minced garlic, lime juice, and salt, mixing well.
  3. Fold in diced onion, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro until just combined.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Final Assembly

  1. Transfer guacamole to a serving bowl.
  2. Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds over the top, reserving some for garnish.
  3. Gently fold some seeds into the guacamole, leaving others on top for presentation.

Pro Tips for Perfect Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Avoiding Brown Guacamole

  • Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole when storing
  • Add extra lime juice to the top layer
  • Leave one avocado pit in the finished guacamole (an old trick that helps prevent oxidation)

Tool Recommendations

  • Use a molcajete (traditional Mexican mortar and pestle) for authentic texture
  • A potato masher creates perfect chunky guacamole
  • A citrus squeezer ensures you get every drop of lime juice

Storage & Freshness

  • For best results, prepare guacamole no more than 2 hours before serving
  • Store leftovers with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface
  • Add fresh pumpkin seeds just before serving for maximum crunch

Looking for more delicious recipe inspiration? Check out my Pinterest page for more creative ideas: GusRecipes on Pinterest click to discover mouthwatering dishes that will impress your family and friends!

Flavor Variations for Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Spicy Twist

Add 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder to both the guacamole and the pumpkin seed seasoning for a smoky heat that complements the creamy avocado perfectly.

Mediterranean Version

Incorporate 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired variation that pairs beautifully with the roasted pepitas.

Tropical Twist

Mix in 1/4 cup diced fresh mango or pineapple for a sweet-savory combination that brings bright, sunny flavors to the dish.

VariationAdded IngredientsBest Paired With
ClassicAs listed in recipeTortilla chips, tacos
Spicy+Chipotle powderMexican beer, quesadillas
Mediterranean+Feta, olivesPita chips, grilled vegetables
Tropical+Mango or pineappleGrilled fish, tropical cocktails
Smoky+Roasted corn, smoked paprikaBarbecued meats, mezcal

Serving Suggestions for Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

  • Serve with blue corn tortilla chips for a colorful presentation
  • Use as a topping for grilled vegetable tacos
  • Spread on toasted sourdough for an elevated avocado toast
  • Dollop onto southwestern-style salads
  • Serve alongside grilled vegetables as a healthy dip option
  • Use as a condiment for black bean burgers

Beverage pairings:

  • Sparkling water with lime
  • Cucumber-mint infused water
  • Fresh limeade or lemonade
  • Iced hibiscus tea
Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

FAQs about Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Can I make this guacamole ahead of time?
You can prepare the roasted pumpkin seeds up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. For the guacamole, it’s best made fresh, but you can prepare it up to 4 hours ahead if you place plastic wrap directly on the surface and refrigerate.

How can I tell if an avocado is perfectly ripe?
A ripe avocado should yield to gentle pressure without feeling mushy. Remove the small stem button at the top if it comes away easily and reveals green underneath, it’s ripe. If it’s brown underneath, the avocado is overripe.

Can I use store-bought roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, but they won’t have the same fresh, customized flavor. If using store-bought, look for unsalted versions and give them a quick toast with the spices to refresh the flavor.

Is this recipe vegan?
Yes! This guacamole with roasted pumpkin seeds is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it perfect for guests with various dietary preferences.

How can I rescue too-spicy guacamole?
If you’ve added too much heat, add more avocado if available. Alternatively, a dollop of dairy-free sour cream or a squeeze of extra lime juice can help balance the spice.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about how the creamy richness of perfectly ripe avocados contrasts with the warm, nutty crunch of roasted pumpkin seeds. This guacamole recipe takes a beloved classic and elevates it to something truly special worthy of your next dinner party, game day gathering, or simple weeknight indulgence.

I hope this guacamole with roasted pumpkin seeds brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine! Share your creations on social media and tag @GusRecipes I’d love to see your personal twist on this vibrant dish. And remember, the best recipes are the ones shared with people you love!

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Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Guacamole with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A Flavor Explosion!


  • Author: Emma Emma
  • Total Time: 10 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A fresh, creamy guacamole topped with crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds for the perfect blend of texture and flavor ideal for dipping, topping, or spreading.


Ingredients

Scale

3 ripe avocados

1 small lime, juiced

1 small tomato, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

12 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)


Instructions

1. Slice avocados, remove pits, and scoop into a bowl.

2. Mash to desired consistency (smooth or chunky).

3. Add lime juice, tomato, red onion, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Fold everything together gently.

5. Top generously with roasted pumpkin seeds.

6. Serve immediately with chips, veggies, or as a spread.

Notes

Toast raw pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes until they pop and turn golden.

For spicy guacamole, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.

Best eaten within 24 hours.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp
  • Calories: 120

Keywords: guacamole, pumpkin seeds, dip, avocado

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