This Stovetop Gadget Is the Secret to Light and Fluffy Popcorn

Whenever I find myself craving an afternoon snack, I try to pick foods that are healthy and will keep me satisfied until my next meal. And there's no better option than popcorn! Popcorn is high in fiber and low in calories (a 1-ounce serving of kernels gets you 3 cups of popped corn and contains about 100 calories), plus it's just delicious.

And while there are various methods to make popcorn, like with an air-popper or in the microwave, I've found the perfect machine for making fresh popcorn on the stove: the Whirley-Pop Popcorn Popper (buy it: Sur La Table, $30). This popper will make up to 6 quarts of popcorn at a time, and it only takes around a teaspoon of oil. Not only will you have enough popcorn to snack on throughout the week, but you can cut back on grease.

To use the Whirley-Pop Popcorn Popper, simply pour in the kernels and oil, set it on the stove and turn the handle (buy it: Sur La Table, $30). According to EatingWell senior digital food editor Megan O. Steintrager, who swears by her Whirley-Pop, "The hand-crank keeps the kernels moving so they don't burn, and the vented lid releases moisture, which helps create fluffy—not soggy or chewy—popcorn." And, as a bonus, the machine includes a 25-year warranty in case any of the parts stop working.

Once you've made your fresh popcorn, you can play around with different seasonings. My go-to spice is garlic salt, but you could try other savory combinations like our Italian Popcorn and Barbecue Popcorn. And if you want to go sweet, check out our recipes for Confetti Birthday Cake Popcorn and Dark Chocolate and Peanut Popcorn. Either way, you'll end up with a healthy and delicious snack!