Zesty Herb-Infused Vegetable Polenta

Hearty Herbed Veggie-Topped Polenta Recipe

Overview

This recipe for Hearty Herbed Veggie-Topped Polenta is a delightful twist on a classic dish, enhanced with fresh herbs and a variety of vegetables. It serves as a satisfying one-dish meal, perfect for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Originally sourced from MayoClinic.com and personalized with additional herbs and seasonings, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary experience with its robust flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

• Polenta:

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  • 1/4 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Vegetables:

  • 1 cup spinach, steamed
  • 1/4 cup zucchini, diced

• Cheese and Seasonings:

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1/8 teaspoon paprika
  • Pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 155.1
• Total Fat: 2.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.6g
• Cholesterol: 2.2mg
• Sodium: 665.6mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30.3g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4.8g
  • Sugar: 1.8g
• Protein: 6.1g

Instructions

1. Preparation:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
   • Spray a small ovenproof dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Polenta:

   • In the prepared dish, combine the cornmeal, water, minced garlic, and salt. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps in the mixture.

3. Baking:

   • Place the dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for approximately 60 minutes. The polenta should become firm and set during this time.

4. Steam the Vegetables:

   • While the polenta is baking, steam the spinach and diced zucchini until tender. This can be done using a steamer or a microwave, whichever method you prefer.

5. Assembly:

   • Once the polenta is fully cooked and has a firm texture, remove it from the oven.
   • Top the baked polenta with the steamed vegetables, distributing them evenly over the surface.

6. Seasoning:

   • Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously over the vegetables and polenta.
   • Season with dried thyme, oregano, basil, parsley flakes, paprika, and freshly ground pepper to taste.

7. Serving:

   • Serve the Hearty Herbed Veggie-Topped Polenta hot, either as a standalone meal or accompanied by a refreshing fruit juice or salad for a complete dining experience.

Tips for Success:

• Polenta Consistency: Ensure the polenta mixture is well-stirred before baking to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth texture.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable toppings based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can also complement this dish beautifully.
• Herb Enhancement: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile. Adjust quantities to taste.

Conclusion

This Hearty Herbed Veggie-Topped Polenta recipe combines simplicity with savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, vegetarian meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner cook or seasoned chef, this dish promises to satisfy with its nutritional balance and delicious appeal. Try it today and discover a new favorite for lunch, dinner, or any occasion where good food is meant to be shared and enjoyed.