Pumpkin Seed Spread

My version of pumpkin seed spread straddles the fence between sweet and savory, and is very adaptable. It was inspired by a similar (but savory) spread that Cortney Burns and Nick Balla serve at their San Francisco restaurant, Duna.

Step: 1

Place garlic pieces in a cold, dry skillet. Add vegetable oil. Cook garlic on low heat until it starts to soften but does not get brown, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. When garlic is tender, remove skillet from heat; let garlic cool in the oil.

Step: 2

Place pumpkin seeds in a cold, dry skillet. Set heat to medium. Stir seeds until hot and fragrant but not browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer to a bowl.

Step: 3

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Add onion and Serrano pepper. Cool until edges start to brown and some bits begin to char, 3 to 5 minutes. Pour in apple juice. Reduce heat to medium and cook until liquid is reduced almost all the way and has a syrup-like consistency, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step: 4

Place pumpkin seeds, cilantro leaves, onion mixture, softened garlic and oil, lime juice, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Cover and pulse on and off until mixture becomes a coarse paste, scraping down sides with a spatula a few times, 1 or 2 minutes. If mixture is quite thick, add a few tablespoons of apple juice or water (apple juice will make it sweeter).

Step: 5

Continue to process until mixture is to your desired consistency. Transfer to a bowl. Cover; refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours. Taste, and adjust seasonings and acidity as needed with additional salt and/or apple cider vinegar.

Per Serving: 227 calories; protein 6g; carbohydrates 9.8g; fat 19.7g; sodium 201.4mg.

Tasty and not difficult to make , these appetizers work for any meeting or gathering . When throwing a get-together , large or few people , you can’t forget the delicious snacks . We’ve gathered of our best snacks menus that are sure to suprrise your guests. From lips to spreads and everything in between, you’re sure to find the perfect snacks for any occasion .

For your great party, be sure to try the Cranberry Meatballs . If you’re crunched for time, the Instant Classic Cheese Tray is your go-to .