Herbed Polenta & Roasted Tomato Bake: A Cozy Weeknight Delight

This Herbed Polenta & Roasted Tomato Bake transforms a simple weeknight meal into an extraordinary feast with comforting flavors and elegant presentation.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Resting Time 5

Total Time 1

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Polenta

1 cup Cornmeal Choose stone-ground for richer flavor
4 cups Vegetable Broth Enhance with a bay leaf during simmering
2 tablespoons Butter Swap for olive oil to keep it vegan
2 teaspoons Fresh Rosemary Thyme or oregano make great substitutes
2 teaspoons Fresh Thyme Dried thyme is a fine alternative if fresh isn't handy
2 tablespoons Fresh Basil Parsley can be used instead for a different profile

For the Tomatoes

2-3 pieces Plum Tomatoes Consider heirloom tomatoes for a twist
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use extra-virgin for a more robust taste
to taste Sea Salt Essential seasoning
to taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning

For Topping

1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be substituted or omitted for vegan needs
to taste Red Pepper Flakes Feel free to skip for a milder experience

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
whisk

Method

Preparation Steps

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, reducing the heat to low. Stir continuously for about 20-25 minutes, or until thickened and smooth.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Halve the plum tomatoes and toss with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Spread them cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes until blistered.
Once the polenta is ready, add butter and the chopped rosemary and thyme while stirring. Spread the herbed polenta in a baking dish and layer the blistered tomatoes on top, drizzling with olive oil.
Set your oven to broil and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the top is golden and slightly bubbly.
Let the bake rest for at least 5 minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For an added touch, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction or adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.

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