Cheesy Lemon Thyme Popcorn
This savory and aromatic popcorn features finely grated Parmesan, fresh thyme, and lemon zest, all brought together with rich butter and a perfectly crisp pop. Ideal for movie nights or casual gatherings, this homemade popcorn delivers a bright, herby twist on the classic snack.
2
Servings
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup popcorn kernels
- Vegetable oil as needed to coat pan
- Fine grain sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Microwave-safe dish
- Zester or microplane
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, chopped thyme, and lemon zest. Set the mixture aside.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe dish and set aside for later use.
- Step 3: In a medium saucepan, add just enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. Place over medium heat and add 2–3 popcorn kernels.
- Step 4: Once those kernels pop, the oil is hot enough. Add the remaining popcorn kernels, cover the pan with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, and begin gently shaking the pan back and forth.
- Step 5: Continue shaking the saucepan frequently to keep the kernels moving. Cook until the popping slows to 2–3 seconds between pops, then immediately remove from heat and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
- Step 6: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the popcorn, stirring to coat thoroughly.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the Parmesan-thyme-lemon zest mixture over the buttered popcorn, stirring again to ensure even distribution.
- Step 8: Season with fine grain sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
Freshly grated Parmesan offers better flavor and texture than pre-grated cheese.
For optimal crunch, serve the popcorn right after mixing in the toppings.
Dried thyme may be used in place of fresh thyme in a pinch, but reduce the quantity by half.
For optimal crunch, serve the popcorn right after mixing in the toppings.
Dried thyme may be used in place of fresh thyme in a pinch, but reduce the quantity by half.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 269kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 359mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 528IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 206mg | Iron: 1mg