Parmesan Ranch Popcorn Food

PARMESAN RANCH SNACK MIX (NO-BAKE)

Steps:

• In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the oil, ranch mix, and stir to combine. Add the popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and optional ingredients (see below). Tip to make popcorn easily - add 2 to 3 tablespoons unpopped kernels to a brown paper lunch bag, fold the top down twice, and heat for about 90 seconds on high power - don't add oil, butter, or anything else, just the kernels.
• Toss to evenly coat the mixture; it may seem a bit on the oily side, this is okay and it absorbs. Heat on high power for 2 minutes, stopping after 1 minute to toss the mixture because the oil has a tendency to pool at the bottom of the bowl. Add the Parmesan and toss to coat evenly. Serve mix immediately. Mix will keep for up to three days in an airtight container or large ziptop plastic bag; but is best enjoyed same day, noting that cheese has been added and some may wish to refrigerate the mix if storing it longer term.
• Optional Variations - Can be added instead of or in combination with the other dry ingredients: Coarsely crushed saltines, oyster crackers, Club or Ritz crackers, rye crisps, Asian-style rice crackers, tortilla or potato chips, favorite gourmet or specialty crackers, cashews, almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds, pistachios. For a spicy version, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper, to taste.

SAVORY PARMESAN POPCORN

Steps:

• Combine the Parmesan, garlic salt, paprika, pepper, salt and turmeric in a small bowl. Combine the popping corn and melted butter in a large pot. Cover and cook over medium heat, shaking the pot with increasing frequency as the popping increases. Continue until the popping is reduced to a couple of seconds between pops, then remove from the heat and transfer the popcorn to a large brown bag. Drizzle the popcorn with the olive oil and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of the seasoning into the bag. Shake up the popcorn. Sprinkle with additional seasoning to taste and serve warm.

PARMESAN & CHIPOTLE POPCORN

Steps:

• Microwave the popcorn for 3 to 5 minutes, according to the directions on the package, until the popcorn stops popping. Carefully pour the hot popcorn into a large bowl and immediately pour on the butter, then the Parmesan, chile powder, and salt. Toss well and serve hot.

RANCH POPCORN

Steps:

• Place the popcorn in an ungreased 13x9-in. baking pan. Combine the remaining ingredients; pour over popcorn and toss to coat. , Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm.