Butter-Free Popcorn Seasoning Ideas

This simple yet delicious topping requires just two ingredients: sea salt and black pepper (whole peppercorns are best). Make sure to grind the spices as finely as possible and add them to the popcorn while it's still warm. This way, they should stick without any oil. If not, lightly mist the popcorn with water or a little olive oil to help the seasoning stick.

To keep this option even healthier, figure out the least amount of saltiness you enjoy; too much sodium is associated with high blood pressure.

This Italian-inspired topping combines the freshness of lemon zest with the nuttiness of parmesan. Mix a little good-quality olive oil with freshly grated parmesan, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a healthy, moreish snack. If possible, opt for the real deal—Parmigiano Reggiano—as it is relatively low in fat and packed full of protein, calcium, and gut-friendly bacteria.

Try tossing freshly-popped corn with a mixture of lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, and a pinch of salt for a healthy snack with a kick. There's no need for butter or oil, which keeps the fat content down, and the spicy zing will please your tastebuds without needing too much sodium.

Combine garlic powder with dried herbs and a pinch of salt and pepper for a tasty savory snack. Oregano and thyme work particularly well, but each herb will bring something different to the mix.

A little olive oil will enhance the flavor and help the seasoning to stick. Garlic is another flavor option that packs a punch, so you don't need much added salt or butter to really taste it.

Enjoy the classic flavor of ranch dressing by combining dried dill, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Nutritional yeast is a great addition to this mixture and offers a little boost of protein and B vitamins. Make this seasoning from scratch instead of using a packet mix to avoid any unnecessary additives.

Combine chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper for a delicious spicy popcorn topping. Shop-bought taco seasoning works too, but look for one without too much salt.

If you like it fiery, use a little hot sauce to help the seasoning stick.

For an exotic twist, try tossing fresh popcorn in a little warm coconut oil and some curry powder. Add toasted unsweetened coconut flakes to boost the coconut flavor.

Despite its healthy reputation, coconut oil is high in saturated fat which has been linked to raised cholesterol levels and heart disease, so use it sparingly and not just as a 1:1 butter replacement.

Not just for winter, cinnamon is a delicious seasoning choice all year round. Mix some cinnamon with a little powdered sugar and sprinkle over freshly-popped corn. Alternative sugars, like coconut or maple, work nicely here too; they aren’t necessarily healthier, but they are less processed and have unique flavor profiles.

In moderation, chocolate can be good for you. Cocoa contains phenolic antioxidants that lower inflammation, prevent oxidative stress, and have a positive effect on mental health.

Mix some good quality cocoa powder with a little powdered sugar and shake over fresh popcorn. Add some cinnamon and a pinch of chili to boost the flavor.

For a sweet and spicy treat, try sprinkling a mixture of ground ginger, cinnamon, and powdered sugar over warm popcorn. Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and adds a wonderful warmth and spicy kick to any snack.