Air-Popped Popcorn with Herbs
Air-popped popcorn is a light and satisfying snack perfect for supporting healthy blood pressure. Enhanced with your favorite herbs, it’s a flavorful alternative to salty, butter-laden varieties.
This simple snack is low in calories and rich in fiber, making it a heart-healthy choice. With just a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, you can enjoy a delicious, guilt-free treat anytime.
Prep, cook, and total time | Calories per serving |
---|---|
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 3 minutes Total Time: 8 minutes | Approximately 120 calories Popcorn kernels (3 cups popped): ~90 calories Olive oil (1 tsp): ~40 calories Herbs: Negligible calories |
Ingredients
- 3 cups air-popped popcorn
- 1 tsp olive oil
- A pinch of dried oregano, rosemary, or thyme
- Optional: a dash of smoked paprika or black pepper for extra flavor
Instruction
- Air-pop the popcorn kernels using a popcorn maker or stovetop method.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the freshly popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the herbs and any optional spices over the popcorn, mixing well to distribute the flavors.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your heart-healthy snack.
Photos
Extra tips
Flavor variations
- Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory, cheese-like flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy treat.
- Citrus Twist: Zest a lemon or lime over the popcorn for a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a light drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Storage tips
- Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 2 days.
- Reheat slightly in a dry skillet to revive crispiness if needed.
- Season only the portion you plan to eat immediately to maintain texture.
Nutritional insight
- Popcorn is high in fiber, which supports heart health and aids digestion.
- Herbs like oregano and rosemary provide antioxidants, adding flavor without sodium.
- Olive oil contains heart-healthy fats that complement a blood pressure-friendly diet.