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–+ servings
Italian Pesto Popcorn – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Italian Pesto Popcorn

A simple recipe for gourmet Italian Pesto Popcorn, transforming a classic snack with rich, herby butter infused with basil, garlic, and salty Parmesan.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 15 cup
Calories: 205

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup or 76g (2.68 oz) butter
  • 1 tsp or 1g (0.04 oz) dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp or 1.5g (0.05 oz) garlic salt
  • 2 tsp or 10g (0.35 oz) grated vegetarian Parmesan cheese
  • 15 cups or 120g (4.2 oz) popped popcorn
  • For a brighter, fresher flavor, substitute the dried basil with 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of finely chopped fresh basil.
  • To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based butter and replace the Parmesan with 1-2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor.

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the dried basil, garlic salt, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  3. Spread the popped popcorn evenly across a large baking sheet or place it in a very large bowl.
  4. Slowly drizzle the melted pesto butter mixture over the popcorn, tossing continuously to ensure every kernel is evenly coated.
  5. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
  6. Pour the butter mixture in a slow, steady stream while continuously tossing the popcorn to ensure the most even coating without making it soggy.
  7. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the basil and garlic for a subtle, spicy kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 205kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 4gFat: 13g

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