Tag Archives: healthy snack ideas

Stovetop Popcorn

 

As a certified popcorn addict, I can tell you that this stuff is like crack, only a hundred million times better and healthier. Bagged microwave popcorn can’t hold a candle to this. Just try it once, and you are likely hooked for life. Fair warning.

Popcorn is also a healthy snack option. As a whole grain, it is after all just a kernel of corn, it delivers about 2 g fiber per 3 cups popped, and contains more antioxidants than some kinds of vegetables. You do have to watch the amount of extras though, have a light hand with the oil or use an air popper, and don’t drown the popcorn in salt (like I do) if you’re watching your sodium.

You will need a large metal pot that you are okay with becoming “the popcorn pot”. I kid you not, my mother and I both have one, and popcorn is the only thing allowed to be cooked in this pot. It is that special, people.

To watch the video on my stovetop popcorn step-by-step how to, click HERE or scroll to the bottom of the page.

Ingredients:

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Step 1: Put the oil, kernels, and salt in the popcorn pot. Swirl it around so that the kernels are evenly distributed in a thin layer.

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Step 2: Put the stove to medium heat, and try hard to wait patiently. When you begin to hear the “plink” of corn popping, you can occasionally swirl the pot around to keep popped kernels from burning and mix it all up.

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Once you don’t hear any popping for a count of 5-10, your popcorn is ready! Be careful when you remove the lid, there will be steam. Pour into a large bowl and dive in. Best piping hot from the stove.

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You can then dress up your popcorn (not that it needs it, I can eat my weight in this stuff) with a whole slew of toppings. Try adding spices like Cajun spice mix, nuts or dried fruits, topping with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or tossing with some candies and melted chocolate (very cute as a Christmas gift in a tin).

Smart snacking: Peanut Butter & Nutella Rice Cake

 

When you get a snack attack, sometimes you just gotta satisfy it. Sometimes you crave sweet, sometimes salty, sometimes crunchy. What happens when you want all three but don’t want to break the calorie bank?

You combine a classic “boring” dieter snack (rice cakes) with a wonderful and delicious thing (Nutella) and a tasty-but-also-good-for-you something (peanut butter). Genius.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large rice cakes (any flavor, I used cinnamon apple here)
  • 1 tbsp Nutella or other chocolate spread
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter
Step 1: Spread peanut butter on one rice cake. Spread Nutella on the other.
Step 2: Mash the two cakes together to make a delightful, guilt-free sandwich snack.
Enjoy!