Herbed Polenta & Roasted Tomato Bake for Cozy Gatherings

This Herbed Polenta & Roasted Tomato Bake is a savory dish that combines creamy polenta with roasted tomatoes, perfect for cozy gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Resting Time 5

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 slices

Course: Casserole

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Polenta

1 cup coarse yellow cornmeal (polenta) Substitute with creamy stone-ground polenta for smoother texture.
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth Enhance with a bay leaf or white wine for depth.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter Swap with olive oil for a vegan option.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Use Gruyère or Fontina for a richer taste.

For the Roasted Tomatoes

2 cups ripe plum tomatoes Alternatively, use heirloom tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
to taste sea salt Essential for seasoning.
to taste freshly cracked black pepper

For the Herb Mixture

to taste fresh rosemary
to taste fresh thyme
to taste fresh basil
to taste red-pepper flakes Adds optional heat.

Equipment

medium saucepan
Baking sheet
mixing bowl
baking dish

Method

Prepare the Polenta

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of coarse yellow cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and cook for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy.

Roast the Tomatoes

While the polenta cooks, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Halve 2 cups of ripe plum tomatoes and toss with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. Spread cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.

Infuse the Polenta with Herbs

Once the polenta is creamy, stir in finely chopped fresh herbs. Season with sea salt, pepper, and red-pepper flakes.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the herb-infused polenta to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Layer roasted tomatoes on top and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Broil for Perfection

Set the oven to broil and place the baking dish on the top rack. Broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.

Rest and Garnish

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serve Warm

Slice into squares and serve warm as a main course or alongside a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This dish can be customized with different cheeses and herbs based on preference. Ensure to rest before slicing for better portioning.

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