Delightfully unexpected and bursting with texture, Popcorn Salad is a whimsical twist on traditional salad recipes. This crowd-pleaser combines freshly popped, lightly salted popcorn with crisp sugar snap peas, shredded carrots, celery, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smattering of scallions. Tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, and apple cider vinegar, this salad achieves a harmonious balance of savory and sweet flavors. Finished with a garnish of fresh dill and a topping of crispy fried onions for the ultimate crunch, it's a bold and playful side dish that's perfect for potlucks and gatherings. Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, this unique recipe is best served fresh to retain the irresistible contrast of textures.
In a large pot with a lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the unpopped popcorn kernels, cover the pot, and shake occasionally to prevent burning.
Once the popping slows down significantly, remove the pot from the heat and allow the popcorn to cool completely. Discard any unpopped kernels.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set the dressing aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled popcorn, sugar snap peas, shredded carrots, chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, and scallions.
Pour the dressing over the popcorn mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Be careful to avoid crushing the popcorn.
Sprinkle the fresh dill over the salad and toss lightly to combine.
Just before serving, top the salad with crispy fried onions for an extra crunch and savory finish.
Serve immediately for the best texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is prepared.
Calories |
2815 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 213.1 g | 273% | |
| Saturated Fat | 48.0 g | 240% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 294 mg | 98% | |
| Sodium | 2446 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 201.0 g | 73% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.7 g | 106% | |
| Total Sugars | 46.4 g | ||
| Protein | 40.4 g | 81% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 798 mg | 61% | |
| Iron | 9.3 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 1905 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.