The sky lights up and before I get to the window, I hear the rumbling of thunder. I open the window and the smell of the wet earth washes over me. I close my eyes and remember my fifth grade teacher reciting a French poem about the wonderful smell of the earth when the first raindrops dance over the ground. I open my eyes to make sure that I am not imagining it all and with a big smile sit by the window enjoying the beauty of the first shower of the season.Thinking what a wonderful world this would be if those little raindrops could wash people’s hearts the same way they wash the trees and houses.
If only!
for now, I have to settle for the symphony of those little raindrops on the window. Fall is officially here.
Today I am a guest at Claire’s wonderful blog Promenade Plantings. Claire is off on vacation for a week with friends and family and I volunteered to write a guest post for her while she was away. If you have never been to Claire’s blog, I strongly suggest you change that.Claire has a passion for gardening that shines through her every post. She enjoys taking care of her plot near her house in St Leonard’s in England and shares wonderful seasonal recipe using her own ingredients that she grows lovingly in her little plot (like this amazing roundup of courgette recipes). She also shares breathtaking pictures of flowers and glimpses into her trips and travels.If all that is not enough Claire shares posts that are deeply insightful.posts that make me think or smile and above all they make me happy to be a dot in her connected world of dots 
With the refreshing fall showers and cold morning breeze, autumn brings apples, figs, pomegranates and of course, pumpkins. For some people , pumpkins are only good for pumpkin pie and jack o lanterns. Well I am here today to tell you that there is so much more that those bright orange orbs can offer and we’ll start with toasted pumpkin seeds
Toasted pumpkin seeds make for a wonderful snack, they are great when you have friends coming over or when you are craving something crunchy and want to stay clear of the chips. What I love about toasting pumpkin seeds at home is the fact that I can play around with flavors. You can always play it safe and only add salt but if you are feeling adventurous try paprika, ginger, garlic powder or your favorite spice and come up with your own seasoning mix for toasted pumpkin seeds
To get the recipe for these ginger and paprika pumpkin seeds head over to my guest post at Claire’s blog
thegreycat
/ January 26, 2013I made peace with roasted pumpkin seeds thanks to your recipe! Where I live they are easy to buy but incredibly salty, they are almost coated in salt “dust”. Nothing to do with what I got following your recipe. I roasted the seeds of a whole pumpkin with different spice mixes (curry was delicious too) on tuesday and they are all gone by now.
Thanks for sharing!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ January 26, 2013Thank you for taking the time to leave me this comment. I know the type of pumpkin seeds you are talking about. Here they sell the same type, it is indeed terribly salty. I am really gald you enjoyed the recipe
pumpkin seeds don’t last in our house too
fati's recipes
/ October 16, 2012Taqesh faqesh with those seeds! Miss them good old days with some freshly brewed tea
spicegirlfla
/ October 12, 2012Swanson! These look soo good. I’m practically cutting open a pumpkin every week and hate to pitch the seeds! My son will be thrilled to get another flavor!
Familycook
/ October 12, 2012Yum yum yum! Anything savory with a hint of spice and heat that is crunchy? I love these anytime:)
Kristy
/ October 12, 2012These look delicious Sawsan! You’ve given me another great idea for Mr. N’s school snack. And I love, love, love how you said that you wish rain could wash our hearts…oh, wouldn’t that be wonderful!
cakewhiz
/ October 12, 2012with the beginning of pumpkin season here, i know i will be buying lots of pumkins and hence, i will have alot of seeds. it’s nice to see i don’t have to throw them out anymore.
these pumkin seeds look spicy and savory and would make a good movie snack
Asmita (@FoodieAsmita)
/ October 12, 2012This is such a great snack!
Saskia (1=2)
/ October 11, 2012Lovely guest post and photos Sawsan. I’ve been neglecting breakfast whilst reading it, and now I’m starving. Especially love your words about Fall too. It’s one of my favorite things about blogging, hearing what folks are up to on the other side of the world. It’s all blossoms and baby possums over here!
Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella
/ October 11, 2012I’ve always wondered what to do with those pumpkin seeds as it seems like a waste to throw them out! Thank you for this Sawsan!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012I am glad you found the post helpful Lorraine, I actually buy pumpkins just to make the seeds and then start looking for things to do with the rest of the pumpkin
Maureen | Orgasmic Chef
/ October 11, 2012You’re right, Claire has a lovely blog. I cannot believe you’ve never made pavlova. I believe that’s an insult to Australians and New Zealanders and you should fix that at once.
Now I’m off to make pumpkin seeds and eat the whole thing. LOL
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Oh my! I seem to be in a lot of trouble! I will fix that very very soon and dedicate the post to you Maureen because you were the source of inspiration
Baker Street (@bakerstreet29)
/ October 11, 2012Great tip on the salted water, off to check out the recipe now!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012The salted water makes a big difference, I hope you’ll enjoy the recipe
Promenade Claire
/ October 11, 2012Hi Sawsan, thank you so much for your wonderful post, I can’t tell you what a pleasure it is to have “hosted” you on the promenade! Such a pleasure, and thank you so much for your kind words!! I hope a few new people have discovered what a wonderful blog you have! Hope you have a super week ahead
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Hello Claire. The pleasure was honestly all mine
I loved being on your wonderful blog, thank you for having me
sallybr
/ October 10, 2012Loved the tip about the salted water – Phil is the regular pumpkin seed baker in the house, but I’ll pass that info to him. I once hurt my gum really bad going at a pumpkin seed with more gusto than advised. It did not stop me from loving it, but now I’m a lot more careful when I bite into them
Great guest post, I didn’t know if I should comment there or here, tossed a virtual coin, and here I am!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012So sorry to hear about your gum, I am glad it did not stop you from enjoying these healthy snacks.
Thank you for your comments Sally, I always love reading them
cquek
/ October 10, 2012Thank you for sharing this recipe and such beautiful, clear photos!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you kindly
rsmacaalay
/ October 10, 2012Looks like I will be nibbling on those endlessly
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012I do too
Profiteroles & Ponytails
/ October 10, 2012Eva just brought me back some paprika from Hungary and I’m keen to use it up. I haven’t roasted pumpkin seeds before but this sounds like a good fall thing to do…that and making time to take in the beauty of the changing season …on a park bench or near a window.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012I love watching the seasons change, fall and spring in particular they are magical each in its own way. I hope you will enjoy these
Norma Chang
/ October 10, 2012Popping over to Claire’s to check out the recipe,
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you Norma
Bam's Kitchen
/ October 10, 2012I also love Claire’s Blog and am so glad you did this fantastic guest post as this is the season for pumpkins and after we carve them for the boys we always roast the seeds. I usually just add plain salt but I love your spice combo and will give that a try this year. Happy Early Halloween. Take care, BAM
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012My kids love these too and there are never any left. I hope your kids will enjoy the spice mix
Geni - Sweet and Crumby
/ October 9, 2012Such beautiful words about fall and an equally lovely fall treat. These look magnificent! Must go check out Claire’s blog…
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you Geni
I love fall and really try to enjoy its beauty
bitsandbreadcrumbs
/ October 9, 2012I can’t eat pumpkin meat, but love the crunchy toasted seeds, and now I want some! Love your description of the rain and fall at the beginning of the post. And I love Claire’s blog…she certainly chose the right person to guest post for her, so I’m off to see the recipe and the post! Happy Belated Birthday, Sawsan! For sure I will never forget your birthday now.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you
and I will never forget yours 
Thank you for your sweet comment
Rufus' Food and Spirits Guide
/ October 9, 2012One of my favorite fall snacks. I love the spice combo.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you Greg. They are one of my favorites too
Jessica Maher (@kbelleicious)
/ October 9, 2012oh i bet i could eat those seeds in one sitting. Just keep popping them in my mouth untl they are all gone! Love the flavors of ginger with the slightly sweet heat of paprika.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Hehehehe I do that sometimes
Eha
/ October 9, 2012Darling husband two [Hungarian-born and bred] loved his pumpkin seeds: oh what a mess to clean up afterwards at times
! I’m simply not used to making or reaching for them, but your post, Sawsan, surely has put the idea into my head – yes, I love your ‘treatment’ also!!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012thedrivencook
/ October 9, 2012What a unique twist to the usual pumpkin seeds. I just might make them this year, normally I toss them because they seem so bland- but these don’t!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012You can make them as spicy as you want Ashley.
Try them with rosemarry and garlic they are amazing
yummychunklet
/ October 9, 2012These look delicious and very flavorful.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you
Flavors of the Sun
/ October 9, 2012This is a nice new twist on an old favorite. They look great! And with so many squashes and pumpkins around right now…how easy! Thanks, Sawsan.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Hello Victoria.
I love playing with spices because that helps keep things interesting
Laura (Tutti Dolci)
/ October 8, 2012Pumpkin seeds are such a great snack, I love the spices you used!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 11, 2012Thank you Laura
I love the fact that they are a healthy snack that one can enjoy without much guilt
Choc Chip Uru
/ October 8, 2012I saw this post my friend it was utterly wonderful
Great job!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Thank you so much Uru
ChgoJohn
/ October 8, 2012Claire chose wisely when she asked that you guest host for her. This time of year, many of our households will be sure to have pumpkin seeds. Your recipe is as timely as it is good. Your par-boiling of the seeds is a great way to season the seeds and your spice mix finishes them off very well. Thanks, Sawsan.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012You are always too kind John.
The par-boiling makes a big difference. I hope to hear what you think of it if you have a chance to try it
Giangi's Kitchen
/ October 8, 2012Lovely recipe. I hope you will find the time to visit http://www.giangiskitchen.com. I have nominated you for the “Lovely Blog Award”. Thank you, Giangi
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Thank you so much for your kindness! I really appreciate the award
myninjanaan
/ October 8, 2012oooh my husband loves pumpkin seeds! I think this might make an appearance in our home soon
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012If you do make them, please let me know how they turn out
Sibella at bakingwithsibella.com
/ October 8, 2012I just love pumpkin seeds and these look so delicious!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012I love them too Sibella and love the fact that not only do they taste good but they are good for you
Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
/ October 8, 2012I have a dish of pumpkin seeds just waiting for the Sawsan Chef in Disguise treatment! I’m heading over there now.. I’m so happy I hadn’t already roasted them!! xx
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012I hope the seeds turned out well Barbara, looking forward to your feedback
Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
/ October 10, 2012They’re sitting on my counter, demanding my immediate attention, lol!
Helene Dsouza I Masala Herb
/ October 8, 2012Wonderfully said. It would be great if the raindrops would wash away the dirt from the hearts…
I like pumpkin seeds (my husband not so much) and they are healthy. Best snack ever! I ll hop over to clairs blog, thanks for sharing. =)
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Thank you for your kind comment Helene.
Pumpkin seeds are indeed healthy and a wonderful snack anytime
Eva Taylor
/ October 8, 2012One of my favourite things of fall are those delightful pumpkin seeds! And I love the way you’ve spiced them, Sawsan. I find I suck on the shell and pop the seed out and munch on the seed; that lasts thirty seconds after which I just eat the seed and shell! So yummy!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012I usually do the same! but this year the pumpkins I have tried so far all came with soft shells and that made it easier to eat them with the shells
pixilated2
/ October 8, 2012Sawsan, Your description of the first rain was so beautiful, but the last line was as a prayer. So many want this very thing.
I never realized that we shared the same seasons. My friends in Australia are just going into spring! With so many connected dots on the map we never have to miss out on the seasons when they wane in our own back yards.
Been pretty much off the net. Glad to be back in touch with my friends!
~ Lynda
pixilated2
/ October 8, 2012PS: Can’t eat pumpkin anything, but will be trying out this recipe on almonds this afternoon! ~ L
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Maybe you can try it on butternut squash seeds if you can eat those
Please let me know how the almonds turn out
pixilated2
/ October 11, 2012I never thought of that! I grow and eat butternut squash every year. Thanks!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Missed you Lynda
I totally agree, blogging really makes life richer sharing everyone’s experiences
saffronandhoney
/ October 8, 2012These look like an addictive and healthy snack:)
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012They are addictive indeed! they never make it through the night in our house
kitchenriffs
/ October 8, 2012These look wonderful! Off to Claire’s to read the recipe.
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Thank you
Sarvani @ baker in disguise
/ October 8, 2012don;t we all need a healthy snack recipe…
.. and so simple.. thats the part i like best!!! and there’s nothing better than the smell of wet earth… if only it could be bottled!!
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012We all need healthy snacks indeed especially with all the baking in fall and winter
Oh if only that smell could be bottled! it would be amazing to have refreshment at your disposal at any time
Bluejellybeans
/ October 8, 2012They look beautiful
Sawsan@ Chef in disguise
/ October 10, 2012Thank you
they taste even better 