Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are the flat, greenish seeds found inside pumpkins and other squash varieties. They have a mild, nutty flavor with a slightly chewy texture when roasted, making them a popular snack or topping. In international cuisine, pumpkin seeds are often used in salads, trail mixes, and baked goods, and they play a prominent role in Mexican cuisine, especially in traditional dishes such as mole sauces and tamales. Historically, indigenous peoples in North America have cherished pumpkin seeds as a nutritious and energy-rich food source, and they continue to be valued for their health benefits today.