Party Popcorn

Here are two more recipes from our academy awards party last weekend. These recipes are incredibly simple and incredibly addictive. The spicy popcorn has just enough punch to keep you coming back for more, and the rosemary, lemon and parmesan popcorn has a surprisingly complex, elegant flavor, and looks oh-so-pretty sprinkled with flakes of shaved parmesan and fresh rosemary. I paired these with my salty caramel popcorn (click here for recipe) to add a little something sweet. These are perfect party snacks: easy to make and easy to eat. And, as party snacks go, they're pretty darn healthy. So enjoy!

      

Spicy Popcorn:
1 tbsp oil
1/2 cup popcorn kernels
2 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Heat oil in large pot, add corn, cover and pop. Drizzle popcorn with butter immediately after it's removed from heat, and toss with spices. Serve.

Popcorn with Rosemary, Lemon and Parmesan:
1 tbsp oil
1/2 cup popcorn kernels
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp grated lemon zest
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese + 1/4 cup shaved parmesan

Heat oil in large pot, add corn, cover and pop. Drizzle popcorn with butter immediately after it's removed from heat, and toss with rosemary, salt, lemon zest and grated parm.  Sprinkle shaved parmesan on top and serve.