pepitas in english
Mia Russell
Updated on June 27, 2026
A pumpkin seed, also known in North America as a pepita (from the Mexican Spanish: pepita de calabaza, “little seed of squash”), is the edible seed of a pumpkin or certain other cultivars of squash.
What is the difference between pumpkin seeds and pepitas?
What’s the difference between pumpkin seeds and pepitas? Pepitas are a type of pumpkin seed, but you won’t find them hiding in just any pumpkin. They are not, as many people think, the inside part of every pumpkin seed. Instead, pepitas actually grow shell-free only in Styrian or oil seed pumpkins.
Is a pepita a sunflower seed?
Green pepitas have a sweet, nutty flavor, making them a perfect accent for most everything from soups and salads to main courses, and desserts. Pepitas are dense and oily like sunflower seeds, and taste similar too, except that pepitas are nuttier and sweeter, as well as a bit larger in size.
Are pepita seeds good for you?
Raw pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a good source of magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, and copper. Magnesium helps improve mood and sleep, while manganese plays a role in collagen production and promotes skin and bone health.
Which is healthier pepitas or pumpkin seeds?
While both pumpkin seeds and pepitas are nutrient-dense, you may want to think twice before passing on the ones with shells for the smoother pepitas. Also according to Healthline, a serving of whole pumpkin seeds with the shells on contains 5 grams of fiber, which is double what you get with pepitas.
What can I substitute for pepitas?
Pepita Seed Substitute: While it’s possible to make a substitution in a recipe featuring these delicious little seeds, the general rule is that while you can always substitute pepitas for regular pumpkin seeds, it’s best not to. It’s both a texture thing and a flavor thing. A better substitute would be pine nuts.
Can I substitute sunflower seeds for pepitas?
If you don’t have pepitas you can substitute:
OR – Use sunflower seeds whole as a snack or with shell removed use them as a topping for salads or soups. OR – Use pine nuts (best toasted) as a snack or to top your salad greens or a soup.
Can I substitute pumpkin seeds for pepitas?
You can certainly substitute one for the other, but there is a rule: you can always substitute pepitas for pumpkin seeds, but it’s best to only substitute pumpkin seeds for recipes that call for pepitas as a garnish.
Are shelled pumpkin seeds called pepitas?
Technically, yes pepitas and pumpkin seeds are the same thing. But pepitas (which mean “little seeds of squash” in Spanish) don’t have a shell and are found in only select pumpkin varieties. Generally, the seeds you dig out of your jack-o’-lanterns are just plain old pumpkin seeds with shells and all.
Which is healthier pepitas or sunflower seeds?
Sunflower seeds are richer in both vitamins and minerals, especially B complex vitamins, vitamin C, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and iron.
What is the difference between sunflower seeds and pepitas?
Today we’d like share some difference between pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. Pumpkin seed kernels taste more delicate and the aroma is pure and thick; while sunflower seed kernels are thicker and harder with more intense aroma.
Can you eat pepitas raw?
Pepitas can also be enjoyed as a raw, gluten-free, and vegan snack. Raw pepitas are better than roasted pepitas because they have more nutritional value and roasting can make them lose some of their nutrients.
Who should not eat pumpkin seeds?
Top 9 Side Effects Of Pumpkin Seeds
Stomach Ache.Absence Of Nutrients.Not Good For People On Diuretic Drugs.Not Safe For Infants.Not Safe For Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women.Allergy To Pumpkin Seeds.Not Safe For People With Hypoglycemia.Could Cause Unwanted Weight Gain.
How many pepitas should I eat a day?
But going overboard can do more harm than good. The American Heart Association recommends one ounce (about a quarter cup or around 28 to 30 grams) of pumpkin seeds daily.
Do pumpkin seeds make you poop?
The fiber in pumpkin seeds may help to bulk up stool and prevent constipation in the long run. However, eating too many pumpkin seeds at once may cause constipation.
Why are pumpkin seeds good for females?
Pumpkin Seeds Improve Bone Density
Pumpkin seeds benefits for women in terms of a better bone density are extensive. Being highly rich in magnesium and calcium, pumpkin seeds help maintain healthy bones. It also helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis in women ( a common issue among women post-menopause).
Are pepitas Keto?
Pumpkin seeds, AKA pepitas, are keto when considering their macronutrient profile. They are high in fat, low-carb, and moderate protein. They’re also abundant in important nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
Do pumpkin seeds lower blood pressure?
The high magnesium content in pumpkin seeds helps lower and regulate blood pressure. Thanks to this effect, diets high in magnesium are associated with a lower risk of stroke and death from heart disease.