It may be tough at first, but teach your kids to skip the store-bought microwave popcorn (which has trans fat and artificial flavors) and pop their own instead. All you need is a paper bag, popcorn kernels, a little olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Once you start making fresh popcorn, you'll see — and taste — the difference. This cheesy version is a guaranteed hit. The kids will love the Italian flavor blitz!
Parmesan Popcorn
Makes:
2 Servings (4 Cups Popcorn)
Hands-on time:
10 minutes
Start-to-eat time:
10 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons popcorn kernels
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Kids kitchen skills:
- using a microwave
- measuring
- stirring
Tools:
- microwave
- paper bag
- measuring spoons
Step-by-step
- Measure the popcorn kernels right into the bag. Fold over the top of the bag a few times.
- A grown-up can help microwave the popcorn for 2 to 3 minutes or until the popping sounds almost stop.
- Carefully open the bag. Drizzle the olive oil over the popcorn. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and Italian seasoning (if using). Give the bag a good shake.
- Taste the popcorn. What do you think? If it needs more salt or cheese, add it to the bag and shake it up. Eat straight from the bag or pour into a bowl.