Popcorn is such a delicious snack and it is actually super healthy due to its fibre and polyphenol content. Polyphenols are natural chemicals found in plants that act as antioxidants and protect us from cancer and heart disease. Researchers have discovered that popcorn contains up to 300 mg of polyphenols per serving, higher than many fruits and vegetables. And interestingly, the hull, the part that gets stuck in your teeth, was found to have the highest concentration of polyphenols.

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This recipe is so easy and quick. You will never buy microwave popcorn again. The olive oil gives it such a delicious flavour as well as adding even more polyphenols. Try to salt to taste to ensure you don't go overboard and make it too high in sodium.

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 Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Salt to taste

 

Directions

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Heat oil in a medium sized stock pot with a handle over medium/high heat. Heat slowly so you don't burn the olive oil. Drop a kernel into pot after 2 minutes and shake pot occasionally until the kernel pops. As soon as the kernel pops, add all of the remaining kernels to the pot, put the lid on, and shake the pot continuously, until you no longer hear popping sounds (or popping slows to one every 5 seconds).

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Empty contents into a bowl and sprinkle salt over the top. Enjoy!

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Resources

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American Chemical Society (ACS). "Popcorn: The snack with even higher antioxidants levels than fruits and vegetables." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 25 March 2012. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120325173008.htm>