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35 Classic Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Still need to plan your Thanksgiving menu? If you're looking for inspiration, then check out this fantastic round-up Classic Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes on Taste As You Go! You know how some people get really excited about the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte at Starbucks? That's how excited I get about turning the calendar over to November. Because November means the coming of the holiday season and the celebration of Thanksgiving. As much as we look forward to spending the day in the company of loved ones, Stephen and I have decided to stay home this year so we can enjoy our first Thanksgiving as a family of three. Of course, staying home means that I'll be cooking the big meal, and I have to admit that I'm a little intimidated by the idea. I know I have to plan for certain must-haves -- roast turkey, apple chestnut stuffing , and green bean casserole -- but I'm having a hard time choosing which additional side dishes to make. While I want there t

Paper Bag Parmesan Popcorn

Paper Bag Parmesan Popcorn - Photo by Taste As You Go

The smell of popcorn popping is a tantalizing one and one that evokes memories of my youth. My father liked to snack on popcorn while he watched television in the evening, so smell of it popping always reminds me of him. I took on eating popcorn in the evening, just like my father, but then stopped abruptly after I finally realized how many chemicals went into the stuff.

Was there a way to make popcorn in the microwave without the additives?


Paper Lunch Bags and Popcorn - Photo by Taste As You Go

Yellow Popcorn Kernels - Photo by Taste As You Go

I don't know where I saw the idea of using a paper bag to pop popcorn in the microwave first, but I do know that I've been wanting to try it for myself ever since. All you need is a paper lunch bag, popcorn kernels, extra virgin olive oil, and salt!

Well, and a microwave.

Duh.

Paper Bag Popcorn - Photo by Taste As You Go

Truth be told, I was actually surprised that it worked. I wasn't paying close enough attention the first time I tried this method, so I wound up burning a few pieces, but the second attempt was flawlessly successful.

Once I was comfortable with the execution process, I started fancying-up my popcorn post-popping. One of my favorite things to do is to add freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the still-warm popcorn. The cheese melts slightly and gives the popcorn a lovely nutty flavor.

Have you ever tried the paper bag method of popping popcorn? How did it work out for you?


Paper Bag Parmesan Popcorn

Printable Recipe

INGREDIENTS
  • 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 paper lunch bag
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Toss the popcorn with the olive oil and salt in the paper bag.

  2. Fold the top of the bag over twice and then place the bag in the microwave.

  3. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until there are about 5 seconds between pops.

  4. Remove the bag from the microwave and carefully open the bag away from your face.

  5. Pour the popcorn in a bowl and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to taste.

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