Popcorn with a Twist

Day 19

So if you're like me, dinner can mean a number of things and not necessarily a candlelit five-course extravaganza. Sometimes it means something as simple as popcorn and some random leftovers. Rarely do you find a popcorn that doesn't whisper sweet toxic nothings in your ear. Fortunately, you can have your cake and eat it too if you know what I mean. Let me share a little trick I learned. Buy popcorn, the real thing, not the boxed buttery movie-theater kind. Just the kernels. Pour the kernels into a small brown lunch bag. If you want, you can put in a couple teaspoons of olive oil, but you don't have to. Shake it up, roll it up, and turn the bag on its side. Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes. Ok scratch that, I burned mine with that advice. Listening is better. Once the popping slows to 5 seconds in between each "pop"....she's ready. Open the bag, sprinkle a little salt, a little seasoning (I made mine with a garlic and herb/red pepper flake combo), maybe a little parmesan cheese. Not feeling salty? Cinnamon is a perfect topping. This homemade version is so much better for you because you know exactly what's in it and you control the portions. It's so good that I ate mine while typing this to you, which means I now have no photo. Perfect. Round 2.

One Idea: Serves 1

1/4 cup popcorn

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Seasoning of your choice

Paper lunch bag

Directions

Toss the popcorn with the olive oil, salt, and seasoning in the paper bag. Fold the top of the bag over and staple the bag twice to close. Place the bag in the microwave and microwave on high for 2 minutes to 3 minutes, or until there are about 5 seconds between pops.

Other topping ideas:

Cinnamon

Paprika

Red chile pepper flakes

Herb spice mixes

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar

Parmesan cheese

Mustard

Nutrition Facts:

per serving: varies with combination

Recipe adapted from Food Network