How I made Easy Creamy Polenta Recipe

Craving a comforting meal that’s both elegant and easy?

Then you absolutely MUST try this Creamy Polenta with Parmesan and Blistered Cherry Tomatoes! It’s a dish that’s incredibly delicious, surprisingly simple to make, and guaranteed to impress anyone you serve it to. The combination of rich, creamy polenta with the burst of sweet and tangy blistered tomatoes is simply divine. Get ready to add this to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love It

• The polenta is incredibly creamy and comforting, like a warm hug in a bowl.
• The blistered cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and acidity that perfectly cuts through the richness of the polenta.
• It’s ready in under 45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
• It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings and flavors.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Creamy Polenta apart is the technique for achieving that perfect velvety texture. We’re not just throwing the polenta in water and hoping for the best – we’re slowly whisking it into hot milk, which creates a truly luscious base. And the blistered cherry tomatoes aren’t just a garnish; cooking them in olive oil with garlic brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor, creating a vibrant sauce that complements the polenta beautifully.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup coarse-ground polenta (not instant)
• 4 cups whole milk, plus an extra ½ cup if needed
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Coarse-ground polenta is key here for that wonderful texture. The slow cooking process allows it to absorb the liquid and create a velvety smooth consistency. The Parmesan cheese adds that delicious salty, nutty flavor that is essential for the polenta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, bring the milk and water to a simmer over medium heat. Season with salt.
2. Slowly whisk in the polenta, making sure to prevent clumping. Reduce the heat to low.
3. Continue whisking frequently for about 30-35 minutes, or until the polenta is very creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pan. If it gets too thick, add the additional ½ cup of milk a tablespoon at a time.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Cover the pot to keep it warm.
5. While the polenta is cooking, prepare the blistered tomatoes. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and garlic and cook, shaking the skillet occasionally until the tomatoes begin to burst and their juices release (about 8-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
6. To serve, spoon the creamy polenta into bowls and top with the blistered tomatoes and their juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan, if desired.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to get creative? Try adding these toppings or variations!

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms in olive oil and roast alongside the tomatoes for a hearty meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blistered tomatoes for a little heat.
• Herbs: Instead of basil, try fresh thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Expert Tips

• Use a good quality coarse-ground polenta. Instant polenta will not give the same creamy texture.
• Whisk the polenta slowly and continuously, to prevent lumps from forming.
• Don’t rush the cooking process. Polenta needs time to cook and absorb the liquid for the best texture.
• Taste and adjust seasonings as you go, as the amount of salt and pepper needed will vary.
• Serve the polenta immediately for the best creamy consistency, as it tends to thicken as it cools.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the milk with water or broth? While you can use water or broth, the milk contributes to the creamy texture of the polenta. I would not recommend this.
• Can I make this ahead of time? The polenta is best served immediately, but you can make the blistered tomatoes ahead and gently reheat before serving.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover polenta and tomatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to the polenta and stir until warm and creamy again.
• Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Try experimenting with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavor profiles.
• Can I use canned tomatoes? If fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but they may not burst as nicely. Drain them before using.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is a great starting point, feel free to experiment with different combinations!

• Mushroom Polenta: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and thyme before adding them to the polenta.
• Pesto Polenta: Swirl a spoonful of pesto into the polenta just before serving for a herby twist.
• Goat Cheese Polenta: Substitute half the Parmesan for goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy polenta with blistered cherry tomatoes makes a wonderful side dish or a light main course. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a simple salad. It’s also perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. For a more substantial meal, you can add a protein like grilled shrimp or sausage. Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you serve it!

Conclusion

This Creamy Polenta with Parmesan and Blistered Cherry Tomatoes is a recipe that is sure to become a new favorite! It’s comforting, flavorful, and relatively easy to make. The combination of creamy polenta and the burst of flavor from the sweet and savory blistered tomatoes is absolutely irresistible. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get cooking! If you try this, be sure to share your creations with me! Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more delicious recipes!