what is a pepita

Pepitas are a variety of pumpkin seeds without a shell that can be eaten raw or roasted. They are harvested from specific hulless pumpkin varieties, known as Styrian or Oil Seed pumpkins, and are also known as "little seeds of squash" in Spanish. While pepitas are pumpkin seeds, not all pumpkin seeds are pepitas. The name pepitas means “little seeds of squash” in Spanish, and they come from a specific pumpkin variety with a hull-less seed known as Styrian or Oil Seed pumpkins. Pepitas are a low-calorie snack that is packed full of nutrients, including iron, zinc, manganese, heart-healthy fats, and protein. They are often eaten as a snack, but also make an inexpensive substitute for pine nuts and taste great in recipes like pesto. Additionally, they can be added to other foods, such as salads, granola, salsa, and dips, to add a depth of flavor and texture. Pepitas are a gluten-free, high-fat snack that fits with paleo and keto diet plans.