Are you having a cookout this Labor Day? If so, don’t forget to serve your favorite snack! Popcorn is such a versatile treat. Here are some creative ideas that are sure to please a crowd:
Pop it on the Grill
Since you’re firing up the grill anyway, why not pop it on the grill before you start cooking your meat and vegetables? There are two basic methods – using a foil packet or placing a pot directly on the hot grill. Choose the method that works for you and then season the popcorn however you want. Most people are happy with a simple butter and salt seasoning, but you can get a little more creative, if you want.
Serve a Snack Mix
Guests love feasting on snack mix while waiting for the main course! Mix about 8 cups of popped popcorn in any flavor with one cup each of pretzels, salted nuts, snack crackers, and candy pieces, if desired. To feed a large crowd, double the recipe and store it in an airtight container so you can refill the bowls when needed.
Use it as a Salad Topping
If you’re serving salad at your cookout, consider using popcorn as a topping instead of typical choices like croutons or bacon pieces. Since you can season your popcorn any way you want, it’s a good fit for just about any salad! For example, if you’re serving taco salad, try topping it with cheese flavored popcorn instead of tortilla chips.
Drink Popcorn Cocktails
No barbecue is complete without a few cocktails! Popcorn syrup can be used to flavor various cocktails. To make a popcorn martini, add 1 ounce of popcorn syrup, 2 ounces vodka, and 1 ounce of butterscotch schnapps to a cocktail shaker half filled with ice. Shake vigorously, and then pour into a martini glass. Garnish with a few kernels of caramel popcorn. This cocktail is sure to be the hit of your barbecue!
Create a Popcorn Bar
Popcorn bars aren’t just for weddings! Your Labor Day cookout is the perfect time to have one. This is an especially fun option when you have a large crowd. Since people love to eat their popcorn in different ways, giving them options will definitely make them smile.
Serve it as Dessert
Most of us think of popcorn only as a snack. However, it can also be served as a dessert. Some of our favorite ideas include serving popcorn chocolate truffles, popcorn donuts, and even popcorn cake! These desserts are easy to make in advance, too, which makes them an even better choice for your party. You can also try this marshmallow popcorn bar recipe for a creative take on a nostalgic favorite.