Popcorn!

I am OBSESSED with popcorn. I always have been. I go through phases of not really wanting to eat it, but for the most part, it's my go to snack (or occasionally dinner). I grew up with my mom making it on the stove in a pot with a bit of oil - that way is still my favorite but it's too time consuming for me. I have an air popper (two, actually) but when you're an every day popcorn consumer like myself, even that takes too much time. Solution? The brown paper bag.

This was suggested to me a few years ago and it has changed my life. You get the simplicity of the microwave with the freedom to decide how much you want to make and minus the gross chemically tasting "butter". Just pour some kernels in the bottom of a brown paper bag (any size but I use the standard lunch size), fold the top over, and microwave for a minute and a half to two minutes.

If you like your popcorn boring, this is the end for you. Pour in a bowl and eat. But toppings are where it gets fun. I always love the classic, butter and salt, but I'm off salt right now and pouring 2 tablespoons of butter over the top takes away from the healthiness. I tried chipotle powder for spicy- I love the smokiness of chipotle. But I'm not super into spicy so that's a once in a while deal. Lately I've been going for pepper and garlic powder. Sooo good. When I'm feeling indulgent, I'll throw some parmesan cheese on, too.

At a friend's suggestion, I tried pepper and curry powder. Curry is such a strong flavor that I can't have it every night but it would be awesome to have as a snack when you have people over. The only problem with no butter though is the spices don't stick! I've been using olive oil spray but you could also melt a little bit of butter with olive oil. The oil will take on the flavor of the butter so you'll get the benefits of the olive oil without all the downsides of butter.

What's your favorite popcorn topping?