I don’t know about you, but I just can’t think of ANY picture  more attractive than a dish of pretzels!  However, these are wonderful snacks…..remember, it’s Football season!  BTW:  I will print the original recipe, and then tell you how I change it a little….Also, I have to say that I was almost embarrassed to post this dish, because I thought everyone in the world already had the recipe for this!  Wrong!!!

AUNT RITA’S STINKY PRETZELS

2 bags (16 oz) miniature pretzels

12 oz. Orville Redenbacher’s Popping Oil (in the popcorn section)

1 Packet Hidden Valley Ranch Salad dressing (I buy the big jar at Costco, and I used 2 TB)

1 tsp. garlic powder + 1/2 tsp lemon pepper (I didn’t have any lemon pepper but I didn’t let that stop me–I just used pepper)

Mix together everything thoroughly  except the pretzels.  Put the pretzels in a large bowl,  and pour the oil mix over.  Toss completely.  Blend well, and toss every 15 minutes in the bowl for one hour..  Lay out a large batch of paper towels and spread  pretzels out to let them drain for a few hours (if you can wait)

NOTES:  in the original recipe, it says, “Do not eat before a job interview or a date!”    Also, my personal changes, (because I didn’t  think there was enough flavor in the original recipe), I think it helps to warm the pretzels about 5 minutes in the oven at about 300 BEFORE  adding the flavor–this helps them to absorb better!.  Also, Debbie and I thought maybe you don’t need the whole 12 oz. of oil.  So next time, I’m going to do 8 oz.  And then I thought…….Wonder if melted butter would work???  I’ll let you know! I also sprinkled a bunch more Ranch on them while they were warm (remember, I buy the sprinkle big bottle at Costco…)   The more flavor the better…..ask me how I know…..