Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Moliterna cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the salt and slowly whisk in the polenta.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until the polenta is thick and creamy.
5. Remove the polenta from the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, Moliterna cheese, parsley, basil, black pepper, and olive oil.
6. Pour the polenta mixture into the baking dish and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
8. Let the polenta cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Moliterna cheese, you can use Parmesan cheese or any other hard cheese.
- You can substitute the fresh herbs with dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones.
Variations:
- Add cooked sausage or ground beef to the polenta mixture for a meaty version.
- Top the polenta with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese before baking for a pizza-inspired version.
- Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers to the polenta mixture for a vegetarian version.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a whisk to stir the polenta to prevent lumps from forming.
- Let the polenta cool for a few minutes before slicing to make it easier to serve.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the polenta in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the polenta in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese before serving.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil
- Grated cheese like Parmesan or Moliterna
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
- Side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette dressing
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the polenta is too thick, add a little more water or milk to thin it out.
- If the polenta is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the polenta to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from boiled cornmeal.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the polenta as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Italian