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close up of air popped popcorn
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Healthy Air Popped Popcorn

Perfect crunchy, healthy air popped popcorn made with no added oil? Yes! You can make this simple popcorn recipe in the microwave, on the stovetop, or with a popcorn machine in just minutes. Forget movie theaters popcorn and switch to this popcorn recipe for a healthy lifestyle change!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Vegan
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 77kcal
Author: Sara Trezzi

Ingredients

  • ½ cup popcorn kernels - note 1
  • seasonings - note 2

Instructions

How to make healthy stovetop popcorn  

  • Preheat a nonstick pot or stainless steel pot for a few minutes over medium heat. Make sure the pot has a tight-fitting lid. 
  • Add the popcorn kernels to the pot in a single layer. Place the lid on, then shake the pot every couple of seconds to create even heat.
  • Around the 3-5 minute mark, the kernels will begin to pop. Once this happens, turn the heat to medium and keep shaking until you hear the popcorn pop 2-3 seconds apart. Then remove it from the heat.
  •  Let the popcorn rest for 10-15 seconds before removing the lid.
  • Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and toss with your favorite seasonings while the popcorn is still hot before serving. 

How to make healthy microwave popcorn  

  • Using a brown paper bag: Use a sturdy paper lunch bag. Add the kernels to the bag and fold it 2-3 times to ensure it gets fully sealed with no gaps. Microwave for 3-5 minutes and stop when you hear pops every 3-4 seconds. Remove from the microwave and carefully open, as there will be hot steam trapped inside the bag. Place into a bowl and toss with seasonings. 
  • If using a bowl: Add the kernels to the bottom of a microwave-safe bowl then cover the top with a heavy ceramic plate. Microwave for 3-5 minutes or until you hear kernels pop 3-4 seconds apart. Remove from the microwave with oven mitts or a thick towel as the bowl will be very hot. Let the bowl cool for a few minutes before tossing in your favorite seasonings. 

How to make popcorn with a popcorn machine

  • Check your machine's instructions. Place a bowl underneath the spout. Add popcorn kernels while the machine is still off. Put the plastic lid on top of the machine and turn on the popcorn popper. Watch and wait until all popcorn have popped.

Notes

Note 1: The freshest your popcorn kernels are, the more water content they'll have. This will give more power to the explosion and you'll end up with much bigger and crunchier air popped popcorn.
Note 2: Pick one of the following seasonings to add extra natural flavor to your air-popped corn:
  • Sea salt (or smoked sea salt)
  • Italian Seasoning (a mix of basil, oregano, and dried rosemary)
  • Chili powder
  • Flaked seaweed
  • Cinnamon
 
How to store: You can store homemade popcorn in an airtight container or tightly sealed bag for up to 1 week, but it’s best to eat it within 2-3 days as they tend to absorb humidity and lose their crunch. 
*Nutrition information is a rough estimate per serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Sugar: 1g