What can you do with watermelon seeds?

They're rich in fiber and protein. Once toasted, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to using them: in salads, soups, and muffins.

watermelon seeds

Watermelon is rich in seeds, which can be used in many ways. Why waste them? Toasted in a pan or in the oven, as a snack, in salads, in bread or crackers, in smoothies. In some African and Asian cuisines, they are used as a food ingredient, even to make a paste or flour.

What are watermelon seeds good for?

Watermelon seeds are rich in fiber and protein , vitamins B and C, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. Here are some important benefits they provide to our body:

  • They help the functionality of theintestine
  • They protect the mucous membranes from the attacks of toxic molecules
  • They tend to lower blood sugar
  • They improve liver function
  • They help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
  • They have an antioxidant action

To get an idea of ​​the amount of protein in watermelon seeds, consider that 100 grams of seeds contain about 35 grams of protein, while 100 grams of beef contain only 21 grams of protein.

How to use them

Unlike other fruit seeds, watermelon seeds can be used in a variety of ways. They're edible (though you certainly can't eat four hundred of them in one sitting with thirty grams of watermelon...), rich in protein, unsaturated fats, and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, and phosphorus. They also contain valuable flavonoids. Outside of the kitchen, they can be used for heat pads, like those made with cherry seeds. Or even to plant in the garden at the right time.

Toasted watermelon seeds

Toasted watermelon seeds are excellent both on their own and as a garnish for salads. Preparation is simple: arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, add a little salt, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about ten minutes. Nothing could be simpler: lightly salt the seeds and toast them in the oven. Once ready, add them to salads. They'll become crunchy and flavorful. Even better if the salad features watermelon.

Watermelon seeds in drinks

Simply blend the seeds in a blender and add them to your drinks to benefit from their properties. Which drinks? For example, smoothies, shakes , and juices. Watermelon seeds, in addition to giving the drink a unique flavor, will enrich it with valuable properties.

Watermelon Seed Muffins

Toast the watermelon seeds in the oven for about ten minutes at 180°C, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once ready, add them to the muffin batter. The result will leave you speechless!

Gazpacho with watermelon seeds

Toasted watermelon seeds, which as we've seen require simple baking in the oven, can also be used to make an excellent gazpacho . You can make it following this recipe with watermelon and Greek yogurt, adding the toasted seeds at the end as a garnish.

Watermelon seeds for soups

They're excellent for enhancing watermelon gazpacho, but they also add a crunchy, summery flavor to many other soups and broths. The key is to always toast them for about ten minutes in the oven and add them at the end to enrich the dish, giving it a touch of delicious crunch.

Herbal teas with watermelon seeds

Not just for refreshing drinks, watermelon seeds can also be used to make an excellent diuretic herbal tea. Simply add a tablespoon to boiling water and let steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Watermelon Seed Dressing

Love spicy condiments? Make your own recipe using watermelon seeds. Simply toast them with a few chili peppers, grind them, then add minced garlic, salt, and a few cloves. Let them dry, and your watermelon spice is ready to go.

Watermelon granita

Make a watermelon and lime granita. Once ready, top with a few toasted seeds and serve chilled. It's a delicious combination that will delight both adults and children!

Watermelon Pizza

Have you ever tried watermelon pizza? No, it's not a traditional pizza, but a slice of watermelon enriched with mint leaves, other fruits, Greek yogurt, and honey, served as an appetizer. We recommend adding a few toasted seeds.

Controindicazioni

You shouldn't overdo it with watermelon seeds, otherwise you risk intestinal problems. Watermelon seeds are not recommended for those suffering from diverticulitis and those with inflammatory diseases of the digestive system..

 

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