Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal? Then look no further! This polenta recipe, starting with pre-made polenta tubes, elevates this humble Italian staple from simple side dish to a delicious and comforting main course. Forget lengthy cooking times; this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Get ready to discover a new favorite among your easy recipes and healthy meal options!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-pound) tube of pre-cooked polenta (find it in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Sun-dried Tomatoes
Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Incorporate the Polenta
Carefully slice the polenta tube into 1-inch thick rounds. Add the polenta rounds to the skillet and gently break them apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the polenta to heat through and absorb the flavors from the vegetables. This step creates a wonderful textural contrast.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Basil
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. The Parmesan adds a wonderful salty and umami element, complementing the earthy mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes.
Tips for Polenta Perfection:
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or milk along with the cheese.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Roasted red peppers, spinach, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Polenta with Sausage: Add cooked Italian sausage to the skillet along with the mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Vegetarian Polenta: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Polenta with Pesto: Stir in a generous dollop of pesto along with the cheese and basil for a vibrant, flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy dreamy polenta recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying and flavorful dinner. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!