a simple popcorn dinner

Once a week, we like to scale back and simplify. My family gathers in the living room with a simple fare of finger foods, and enjoys what we call Family Movie Night. Our menu is fairly consistent, and I think we all very much enjoy this tasty and easy meal.

Without a doubt, the star of our meal is Scrumptious Stove-Popped Popcorn. The boys can hardly get enough, and Owen looks on longingly, waiting for the day when he, too, will be old enough to partake.



Scrumptious Stove-Popped Popcorn
6 T. extra-virgin coconut oil
2/3 c. unpopped popcorn kernels
4 T. butter
salt to taste

In 4 1/2-qt saucepan (with a lid), heat the coconut oil. Drop 3 or 4 kernels into pan, put the lid on. After they are popped, put the remainder of the kernels in. Put the lid back on. Let the kernels pop until the sound slows significantly.

Meanwhile, melt the butter slowly in a saucepan. When popping slows down, remove pan from the burner. Transfer popped corn to a large bowl. Pour melted butter over the popcorn and salt to taste. Stir well, and enjoy!

Our meal is usually supplemented with carrot sticks with dip, raw jack cheese, and apple slices. It's just the right amount and encompasses a variety of textures. We've found it the perfect Saturday night treat.

This recipe is part of the Simple and Nourishing Carnival at The Nourishing Gourmet. Please visit The Nourishing Gourmet for more ideas of nourishing, satisfying, and simple food.