Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup chopped capers
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and slowly whisk in 1 cup of polenta.
2. Reduce heat to low and continue to stir the polenta for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes thick and creamy.
3. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter until fully melted and combined.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup each of chopped fresh parsley, basil, rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with 1/4 cup each of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and capers.
5. Fold the herb and tomato mixture into the polenta until fully combined.
6. Transfer the polenta to a serving dish and garnish with additional chopped herbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Low heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes.
- Instead of Kalamata olives, you can use black olives.
- Instead of capers, you can use chopped pickles.
Variations:
- For a creamier texture, you can add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the polenta before adding the herbs and tomatoes.
- For a spicier flavor, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the herb and tomato mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the polenta to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- Add the herbs and tomatoes slowly to the polenta to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Serve the polenta hot for the best flavor and texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the polenta and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the polenta in a shallow bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with additional chopped herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the polenta becomes too thick, add a splash of water or milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the polenta thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from boiled cornmeal.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and herbaceous.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or side dish.
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Region: Italian