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Reach for this savory popcorn recipe with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a healthier popcorn with lots of flavor...and no butter.

I'm not saying you should eat popcorn for dinner. But, I am saying that this savory popcorn tossed in a cheesy olive oil blend is very satisfying. It's a perfect option for a game day buffet.
And, if you happen to eat a great big bowl for an afternoon snack or while watching a movie, then you won't need a very big dinner.
And, the result from using olive oil instead of butter? An enthusiastic yes from my family. It's a healthy snack that was absolutely delicious.
Fresh Herb Options
Adding fresh herbs gives this recipe a savory dimension. I seasoned the popcorn with fresh rosemary and thyme...this time. My bucket list includes:
- basil
- parsley
- oregano
- chives
- dill
- cilantro
- tarragon
- lemon rind
All mixed with olive oil, cheese and flavor infusions from lime juice or a dash of sriracha sauce!
Butter to Olive Oil Conversion
Olive oil is an easy substitution for butter in so many different types of recipes including baked goods. As a general rule, ¾ teaspoon of olive oil replaces 1 teaspoon of butter. Check out Pompeian’s conversion chart and select the best varietal to make the perfect swap.

Popcorn drizzled with a cheese and olive oil got two enthusiastic thumbs up by some very tough critics...my girls! I loooved the addition of fresh herbs. Either way, it's savory popcorn for us from now on!
Would you like more easy, healthy, carb-conscious recipes?
📋 Recipe

Savory Popcorn Recipe with Parmesan and Herbs
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn ¼ cup kernels
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese plus additional cheese to garnish if desired. or nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
Instructions
- Place popcorn in a large bowl.
- Combine olive oil, Parmesan cheese, thyme and rosemary in a small, microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover bowl and microwave olive oil mixture for 10 - 15 seconds.
- Drizzle olive oil mixture over popcorn and toss to coat.
Nutrition







Laney says
This is the absolute best way to eat popcorn. I will never go back to butter again!!!
Angie says
This popcorn looks amazing. My husband will love it, he makes popcorn literally every night!