What could be easier? All you need is a tube of polenta, a little cheese and some imagination, for an impressive appetizer or quick side dish. I'd love to claim that I am organized and thoughtfully plan my food for the week. Nope, not me. Neighborhood potlucks and get-togethers with friends sneak up on me. Staring at the open refrigerator or pantry looking for inspiration can all be solved if I have one ingredient--- prepared polenta in a tube. 
Shelf-stable, fully cooked, zero fat and gluten-free, this yellow cylinder of cornmeal can provide the perfect foundation for something interesting.
Do you have a recipe using polenta in a tube? I'd love to hear your ideas for easy dishes using this convenient product. Share your ideas in the comment section and I'll give it a try!
Recipe
Polenta Rounds
Ingredients
- 1 roll (1-pound) prepared flavored polenta
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan or asiago cheese
- Your choice of pesto sauce julienned roasted red peppers, sautéed sliced mushrooms, chopped black olives, chopped fresh tomatoes or chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Cut the polenta into eighteen ¼-inch slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle each slice with a pinch of the cheese.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until light brown and crisp. Cool slightly. Serve plain or top with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, black olives, tomatoes, basil and/or pesto.
Kel Papp says
Loved it, I have a gluten free friend and I’m always looking for ideas
Another thing I do is fried rounds topped with a filet medallion and finished off with tomato basil bruschetta and balsamic glaze
Eileen Grover says
I like Dean's idea of roasted tomatoes and basil! Sounds so yummy!!
Snowcatdean says
Basil and roasted tomatoes is the only way to go, I'll eat a bunch!!
Maureen Scott says
They look really Christmasy
Karen says
Great idea, Maureen! I'll serve them at our office Christmas party.
Nancy Mucklow says
OK... sounds too simple but so yummy! Thanks for sharing!