RECIPES: GARLIC-BASIL POPCORN, SUNFLOWER SNAPS, SPICED WALNUTS

6yrs ago snowfall in Mojave Desert just outside Beaumont Ca.

It is hard to understand that 7/8ths of America are under the grip of a freezing Arctic Chill and also most of Europe as we "suffer" high temps again in the 80f's & 90f's, and it has just been officially declared we are in a State of Emergency 2 year drought, however it is very clear to understand we are headed for a 'flu epidemic.
With this in mind..some healthy and infection fighting/relieving  snacks:

Garlic-basil Popcorn

Feeds 2

4 cloves garlic smashed and minced
3tbsp butter or margarine
1 tsp dried basil 
1 tbsp sunflower/neutral oil
1/4 cup popping corn
sea salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

2 tbsp gated cheese ( optional & not rec. for anyone with a chesty cold)

Add the garlic, basil and butter to a small oven proof bowl and place in a simmering pot of boiling water for about 20-30 mins to allow the garlic and herbs to infuse the butter ( this may be done in advance in larger amounts, then kept in a sealed jelly jar in fridge or cold pantry)
Heat the oil in a heavy iron or stainless steel pot, add 1 kernel and when it pops add all the rest. Cover with a tight fitting lid and shake pot now and then to mix the oil amongst the corn.
When all has popped, remove from heat, remove lid and add the garlic-herb butter,  and mix well.
Add seasonings and cheese and serve in bowls.

This is a very moreish snack and you might need to make a larger amount every time.

Sunflower Snaps ( this can actually be made with any raw nut/seed..just cook the larger ones a little longer)

1tbsp sunflower oil
2 cups raw sunflower seeds, hulled
8 cloves garlic smashed and minced
1/4tsp salt
1 tbsp soy sauce

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
Add the sunflower seeds and garlic and stir to mix.
When a few of the seeds have turned golden  (with large nuts look for a change in skin color), reduce heat to medium  and continue stirring as needed.
Stop cooking when half the seeds are golden. Remove from heat and add salt.
After 5 mins add the soy sauce and stir.
Store in a container with a tight fitting lid.

These are great, sprinkled on baked potato, salads, pasta, chili, just to eat as a snack, topping cooked vegetables, added to stir fries & etc.

Spiced Walnuts

2 tbsp ground ginger
1 tsp allspice
5 cups water
1 pound walnut halves
4tbsp melted garlic butter ( infuse  2 sticks butter with 8 cloves minced garlic for 30 mins and proceed as in previous recipe)

PREHEAT OVEN 350F
Bring the water to a boil and add the spices.
Add the walnuts and cook for 3 mins. then drain well.
Place the walnuts on a cookie sheet and bake in oven for 15mins or until lightly browned.
remove from oven and toss with melted butter in a large bowl...serve.

This is also great served with pasta as a quick snack, or the same uses as Sunflower Snacks