Recipes

So here’s the thing. It’s a little hard to admit. I think I have developed a bit of an addiction this past week. It’s involved lots of popcorn, a glass of wine or two, and countless episodes of True Blood. Literally, I have spent every night this week eating popcorn, sometimes for dinner, and watching True Blood. I never thought I could get behind anything with vampires but have found myself completely addicted. I guess it could be worse, although I definitely need to stop staying up past my bedtime and falling asleep with my computer still on. It isn’t a pretty scene. But here is the fun part – the popcorn – all different types of popcorn – salty, sweet, and delicious.

Also, on a random note, is anyone else out there subscribed to Birchbox? My friend got me a gift subscription and it is completely amazing. Fun, new beauty products in the mail every month for only $10. I’m in.

Oh and back to the popcorn. I make mine homemade in the microwave using this fabulous little Nordic Microwave Popper. I recommend getting some kind of at home popcorn maker. The real stuff is so much better. Also, 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels makes about 8 cups of popcorn in my experience.

1. Peanut Butter Popcorn, 3 weight watchers points plus per 2 cup serving
If you read my blog regularly, you know I am completely obsessed with PB2, mostly because I am crazy for peanut butter and need a replacement with less calories. For peanut butter popcorn there are two ways to make it. The easy way is just to sprinkle about 2 tbsp of PB2 over 8 cups of popcorn while it is still hot. For even more peanut butter taste, add 1 tbsp warmed coconut oil (or other oil) and 1 tbsp of PB2 to the bowl. Mix to coat all the corners. Pop the popcorn and then sprinkle 1 more tbsp of PB2 onto the popcorn. Delicious. This also works great with the chocolate peanut butter PB2 for chocolate peanut butter popcorn.

2. Parmesan-Thyme Popcorn, 2 weight watchers points plus per 2 cup serving
This popcorn is very addictive. Be warned. Simply make your popcorn (8 cups) and while it is cooking mix together 1/4 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, 2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. While the popcorn is still hot spray it with a little cooking spray and toss with the cheese mixture. Each serving is two cups if you can stop yourself. This recipe came from Weight Watchers.

3. Kettle Korn, 2 weight watchers points plus per 2 cup serving
This great popcorn recipe comes from Lisa over at Snack Girl and is just as delicious as it sounds. First make your popcorn. Then add 1 tbsp of maple syrup, 1 tbsp of peanut butter (or PB2) mixed with water) and a dash of salt to a small bowl and microwave. Pour it over the popcorn and mix together with your hands. Delish. This is also great with a touch of cinnamon.

4. Pizza Popcorn, 2 weight watchers points plus per 2 cup serving
This yummy little popcorn recipe originated with Dr. Oz I think and is pretty delicious. While your popcorn is cooking mix together 1 Tbsp of grated parmesan cheese, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of paprika, 1 tsp of oregano, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of chives. The coat the popcorn with a little bit of cooking spray and toss with the pizza spices.

5. Nacho Popcorn, 5 weight watchers points plus for 3 cups
This recipe comes directly from Weight Watchers and is delicious. First you will need 12 cups of popped popcorn. Their recipe calls for 94% fat free buttered popcorn, but I just make my own. Then you microwave 1/4 cup light butter until it melts and stir in 2 tsp of taco seasoning mix. Pour mixture over popcorn and toss until evenly coated. Then the fun part. Spread popcorn on prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with 3/4 cup light Mexican shredded cheese. Bake until cheese melts, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add some jalapenos on top, and even some salsa or hot sauce. Yum.

What are your favorite popcorn recipes?