Grilled Polenta
Grilled polenta offers a crispy exterior with a creamy interior, infused with garlic and butter, perfect as a side or vegetarian main for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a pot and add the chopped garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add the vegetable stock to the pot.
- Gradually pour in the cornmeal in a thin stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until very thick, stirring frequently.
- Pour the cooked polenta onto a sheet pan lined with plastic wrap and level it with a spatula.
- Cover the polenta with parchment paper to prevent a skin from forming.
- Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator.
- Slice the chilled polenta into desired shapes, about 3.5 oz (100 g) per serving.
- Lightly coat the slices with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Grill the polenta slices on a hot grill just before serving.
- Optional: reheat in the oven if necessary before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese to the polenta as it cooks. If you prefer a smoky flavor, try brushing the polenta slices with smoked olive oil before grilling. Also, using homemade vegetable stock can greatly enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled polenta slices with a variety of toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or fresh herbs. They pair beautifully with Italian recipes like Layered Eggplant Parmigiana or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled polenta slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, grill them again for a few minutes on each side, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help retain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Polenta contains roughly 1138 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (277% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1603mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make polenta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the polenta in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Once cooled, slice it and store it in an airtight container. Grilling it just before serving keeps it fresh and gives it a crispy texture.
What can I substitute for vegetable stock?
If you don't have vegetable stock on hand, you can use water with added seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs. This will provide a base flavor, although homemade vegetable stock will yield the best results.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, polenta is made from cornmeal, which is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on your cornmeal and any toppings or sauces you plan to use to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).