Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Ranch Popcorn

Prep/Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

3 quarts popped popcorn
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons ranch salad dressing mix
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Place the popcorn in an ungreased baking pan. Combine the remaining ingredients; pour over popcorn and toss to coat.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm.

Tips and Tricks
This homemade version of flavored popcorn is healthier than the bagged versions. Try different flavors of cheese or dressing mix for a different taste. Use plain microwave popcorn to save time. We have a Whirly-Pop pot and my son loves to turn the handle (with supervision).
Make It Healthier
Use low-fat salad dressing mix. Decrease the amount of butter or use trans-fat free spread. Substitute a stronger cheese, such as Romano, for the Parmesan, and use less.
How Kids Can Help
Pop the popcorn. Measure ingredients. Toss to coat.

No comments: