Polenta with Green Beans Recipe 🌽🥦

Overview:

This delightful Polenta with Green Beans dish brings a taste of Italy to your table, combining the rustic charm of cooked polenta with the freshness of green beans sautéed to perfection. It’s a flavorful and satisfying side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses or can even stand alone as a light lunch or snack.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 cups vegetable stock (or water for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup coarsely-ground cornmeal (also known as polenta)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Polenta:

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   • In a large pot over medium heat, bring the vegetable stock to a boil.
   • Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, being careful to avoid lumps.
   • Reduce the heat to low and simmer the polenta for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes thick and creamy.
   • Season the polenta generously with salt and pepper, then beat in the grated Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.

2. Set and Bake the Polenta:

   • Lightly oil an 8-inch baking dish and pour the cooked polenta into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
   • Allow the polenta to cool and set while you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Once the polenta has set, cut it into squares and place them on a greased baking sheet.
   • Bake the polenta squares for approximately 15 minutes, or until they develop a slight golden-brown crust.

3. Prepare the Green Beans:

   • While the polenta is baking, bring a small pot of water to a boil.
   • Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and cook for about 2 minutes, until they are just tender.
   • Drain the beans and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.

4. Sauté the Green Beans:

   • In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil.
   • Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
   • Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and sauté them with the garlic and red pepper flakes for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
   • Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble and Serve:

   • Arrange the baked polenta squares on a serving platter.
   • Top the polenta with the sautéed green beans, distributing them evenly.
   • Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   • Serve the Polenta with Green Beans immediately, while still warm, as a delicious and satisfying side dish or light meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 299.3
• Fat: 11.1g
• Saturated Fat: 3.6g
• Cholesterol: 18.2mg
• Sodium: 547.6mg
• Carbohydrates: 36.7g
• Fiber: 3.8g
• Sugar: 5.8g
• Protein: 14.2g

Tips and Variations:

• Make It Vegan: Use water or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrients.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the dish to your taste by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the polenta or green beans.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the polenta and green beans ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving for a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights.