Herbed Popcorn with Olive Oil

Popcorn is high at the list of my all time favorite snacks.  It's healthy (excellent source of fiber), filling, and can be enjoyed so many ways. And of course, it's gluten free!  My favorite way to prepare it is with olive oil, thyme and dill.  Shaved parmesan or nutritional yeast sprinkled on top is a great addition, too. I prefer to prepare popcorn on the stovetop, but using an air popper is both a great calorie + time saver.   

Below is the recipe; I love this one because it's easily customizable and you can mix and match herbs to find what you like best.  This also doubles a great holiday DIY present--toss it into a tin or a decorative plastic bag for an easy homemade hostess gift!  That is, if you want to give any away ;)







































Herbed Popcorn with Olive Oil:

2 tbsp canola oil
3/4 cup popcorn kernels
Olive oil spray (I like Trader Joe's brand)
1/8 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp thyme
1/8th tsp pepper
1/4th tsp dill
1/2 tsp onion powder

Preparation*:

1. Place a 2 or 3 quart saucepan over high heat.  Add the canola oil, enough so that the bottom of the pan is just covered.  Add popcorn and cover with lid.

2. Wait until popcorn begins to pop; once it's popping, sift the pan twice to ensure the kernels are evenly exposed to the oil on the bottom (but keep the lid on!).

3. When there has been no popping for 2 seconds, the popcorn is done. Take pan off the burner and pour into a bowl.

4. Spray popcorn with olive oil, about a 1 second long spray or enough to lightly dust the top of the bowl.  Add the garlic powder and stir with a spoon.  Spray again, adding the salt. Repeat spray/stirring with each ingredient until finished.  Serves 4

*If using an air popper, move to step 4.