Kitchen Moxy

Popcorn salad comes across as one of those dishes that sounds quirky at first, then wins you over the moment you take a bite. It’s the contrast that makes it so delicious: crunchy, lightly salted popcorn folded into a creamy, tangy dressing, brightened with fresh veggies like snap peas, celery, or scallions, and often finished with herbs and a touch of sharp cheddar. Every forkful its a different note—crisp, cool, savory, and just a little indulgent, and a great way to get your kids to eat vegetables!

What makes it memorable is how unexpectedly balanced it is. The dressing softens the popcorn just enough to cling without turning soggy, the vegetables keep everything fresh, and the whole bowl feels like a playful twist on a classic potluck salad. It’s comfort food with personality, and it tends to disappear faster than anyone expects.

Ingredients

• 1 bag of microwave buttered popcorn popped (about 6 cups)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• ½ cup of diced green pepper or bell pepper
• 6 – 8 strips of cooked bacon crumbled (or substitute 1/3 cup bacon bits)
• 1 cup of roasted corn cut off the cob, or a can of corn, drained
• 1 cup of the following vegetables can be mixed in for color and flavor:
  • Shredded iceberg lettuce for crunch
  • Cherry tomatoes, sliced or quartered
  • Celery, sliced thin
  • Baby peas
  • Snap peas
  • French cut green beans
  • Grated carrot
  • Sliced water chestnuts, excellent crunch factor
  • Tiny little broccoli flowerets that have been steamed until crunch tender
  • Pomegranate seeds
  • Shredded cabbage, red or white
  • Shallots
• ½ cup of lite mayonnaise or plain full fat Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, peeled and grated
• 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Process

Make Dressing

In a blender combine the following and blend until fully incorporated.

1. Lite mayonnaise or plain full fat Greek yogurt, garlic, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to taste.

Salad

Mix salad options together in a large bowl:

1. 6 cups of popcorn, green onion or red onion, green or bell pepper, bacon, additional vegetables of choice.
2. Pour dressing over salad and top with finely grated cheddar cheese.
3. Serve immediately.