5 polenta recipes you must try
What's the story
Polenta, an Italian staple, is a magical ingredient that can be anything but polenta. Made from ground cornmeal, polenta makes a neutral base that soaks flavors beautifully. Here are five creative ways to use polenta that'll make you realize its versatility. From something savory to a hint of sweet, these recipes will get you thinking out of the box.
Morning delight
Polenta breakfast bowl with fresh fruits
Start your day with a nutritious polenta breakfast bowl topped with fresh fruits like berries and bananas. Cook the polenta till creamy, then add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Top it off with your choice of fruits and nuts for added texture and flavor. This dish provides energy and nutrients to kickstart your morning while offering an alternative to traditional oatmeal.
Savory twist
Grilled polenta cakes with vegetables
Transform cooked polenta into grilled cakes! Simply allow it to cool and firm up, then slice into rounds. Grill these slices until they develop crispy edges, then serve alongside some roasted veggies (like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms). The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft interior makes this dish an exciting addition to any meal!
Comforting warmth
Creamy polenta soup with herbs
For those chilly days when comfort food is all you need, try a creamy polenta soup infused with herbs like thyme or rosemary. How to make it: Cook the polenta in vegetable broth until smooth, for the soup; then blend it for extra creaminess if you want. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs before serving warm—perfect to enjoy cozy evenings at home!
Snack time fun
Baked polenta fries with dipping sauce
Polenta fries are an innovative take on classic potato fries without compromising on taste or texture. Simply cut cooled, cooked polentas into fry shapes; bake them until golden brown with olive oil spray instead of deep frying- resulting in healthier yet equally delicious snacks. Pair these crispy delights along with homemade tomato-based dipping sauces like marinara sauce for added flavor excitement during snack time gatherings.