Description
Deliciously crispy polenta cakes served with a flavorful roasted tomato relish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 5-7 minutes until thickened, stirring frequently.
- Remove the polenta from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Pour the polenta into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Once the polenta is firm, cut it into squares or rounds. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Fry the polenta cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the crispy polenta cakes topped with the roasted tomato relish and sprinkle with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the roasted tomatoes.
- Try adding different herbs like oregano or thyme to the polenta for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
Keywords: Crispy Polenta Cakes, Roasted Tomato Relish