POP! POP! POPCORN! The Ultimate Heart-Smart Low Cholesterol Snack

Who knew? Popcorn is a 100% whole grain! Not only is it a whole grain but it’s packed with tons of fiber and natural nutrients that come packaged in with unprocessed whole grains such as magnesium and zinc − and all this for a mere 31 calories per cup. What’s more, the crunchy hull is rich in polyphenols antioxidants that prevent damage to cells and have disease − fighting properties.

Just remember to nix the movie theater/microwave types (loaded with bad fats and sodium) and pop up your own kernels (I use a brown paper lunch bag and pop the kernels in the microwave on the “popcorn” setting). Season the popcorn yourself and you have the PERFECT low cholesterol snack for good health and weight control!

Check out the low cholesterol recipe of Cinnamon Stick Popcorn!

Sweet, crunchy and delicious!

Ingredients:

6 tablespoons popcorn kernels

2 brown paper lunch bags

¼ cup light tub margarine (I prefer the spreads with added phytosterols such as BENECOL® Light Spread)

3 tablespoons SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300° F. Measure out three tablespoons of popcorn kernels and place in a brown paper lunch bag. Fold over the top of the bag and place bag in the microwave. Press the popcorn setting and microwave (usually about 2 ½ minutes on high). Repeat procedure with 3 more tablespoons popcorn kernels. Place both bags of popped corn into a large bowl. In the meantime, place the margarine and Splenda into a glass measuring cup. Microwave for 1 minute then remove from microwave and stir until blended. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil. Pour margarine mixture over popcorn and toss to coat. Spread popcorn on baking pan and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cool.

Yield: 6 cups

Nutrition Facts (per 3 cup serving):