what is pepitas seeds

Pepitas are the edible seeds of specific pumpkin varieties, known as Styrian or Oil Seed pumpkins. They are dark green in appearance and are naturally hull-free, unlike most pumpkin seeds, which have shells. Pepitas have a thin skin, delicate crunch, and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. They are commonly used in Mexican cuisine and can be enjoyed as a snack, added to granola, muesli, pesto, salads, snack bars, and more. They are also a low-calorie snack and a nutritional powerhouse, packed full of nutrients and containing a lot of oil. Pepitas can be used as an inexpensive substitute for pine nuts in recipes like pesto and can be added to various dishes to enhance flavor and texture.