Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish

Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish Recipe | Vegetarian Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Creamy polenta with cherry tomato relish is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of polenta with the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by boiling cornmeal in water or milk until it reaches a creamy consistency. Cherry tomato relish is a modern twist on the classic Italian dish, adding a burst of flavor and color to the dish.

Ingredients

6 cups cherry tomatoes
Low fat cooking spray
1 tbsp olive oil
0.25 cup sliced shallots
1.5 tbsp sugar
0.75 cup dry white wine
1.5 tsp salt, divided
0.25 tsp fresh ground pepper
2 cups 1% low-fat milk
1 cup dry polenta
0.5 cup shaved fresh parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Spray a shallow roasting pan with low-fat cooking spray.
Cut slits at the bottom of each cherry tomato, then place them stem-side down in the roasting pan.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) for about 20 minutes.
Reduce the heat to 375°F (191°C) and continue to bake for another 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven, cover with aluminum foil, and let it stand for about 10–15 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shallots and sauté for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
Add white wine, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add 0.5 tsp of salt and the pepper.
Remove from heat, stir in tomatoes, cover, and set aside.
In a large saucepan, add milk and water and bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
Gradually add dry polenta while stirring constantly with a whisk.
Cover and cook for 2 minutes over medium-low heat.
Add 1 tsp salt, cover, and let it stand for 5 minutes or until the polenta reaches a thick consistency, stirring occasionally.
Pass the tomato relish and Parmesan shavings at the table.

Variations

You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the cherry tomato relish for added flavor.
For a vegan version, you can use plant-based milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut slits in the cherry tomatoes before roasting them to prevent them from bursting in the oven.

- Be sure to stir the polenta constantly while adding it to the boiling liquid to prevent lumps from forming.

- For a creamier texture, you can add more milk or water to the polenta as it cooks.

- To save time, you can make the cherry tomato relish ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamy polenta with cherry tomato relish as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

- This dish pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of the dish.

- Stirring the polenta constantly while cooking ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan.

- Instead of cherry tomatoes, you can use sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the cherry tomato relish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- The polenta can be made in advance and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the creamy polenta in individual bowls topped with the cherry tomato relish and shaved Parmesan cheese. - Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the polenta in a saucepan with a splash of milk or water and heat over low heat until warmed through. Reheat the cherry tomato relish in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 300 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Cherry tomatoes: 6g of carbohydrates per cup

- Polenta: 36g of carbohydrates per cup

- Total carbohydrates per serving: approximately 42g

Fats

- Olive oil: 14g of fat per tablespoon

- Parmesan cheese: 7g of fat per ounce

- Total fats per serving: approximately 21g

Proteins

- Parmesan cheese: 10g of protein per ounce

- Total proteins per serving: approximately 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Cherry tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

- Polenta is rich in iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.

- Parmesan cheese is high in calcium and vitamin A.

Alergens

Dairy (milk, Parmesan cheese)

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and can be a part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Creamy polenta with cherry tomato relish is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, sweet and tangy flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish. It was a hot summer day and I had been invited to a potluck BBQ at my friend's house. I wanted to bring something different and delicious to impress everyone. As I flipped through my old recipe books, I stumbled upon a handwritten note tucked away in the back of one of them. It was a recipe for Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish that I had received from a dear friend many years ago.

I remembered the first time I had tasted this dish at my friend's house. The creamy polenta was so rich and comforting, and the cherry tomato relish added a burst of freshness and flavor that complemented it perfectly. I had begged my friend for the recipe, but she had refused to give it to me, claiming it was a family secret. But now, all these years later, I had stumbled upon the recipe again and I knew I had to make it for the potluck.

I gathered the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. I cooked the polenta slowly, stirring constantly to ensure it was smooth and creamy. The cherry tomato relish was simple to make, just a mix of ripe cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. As the dish came together, the aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the dish was finally ready, I carefully transferred it to a serving dish and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh basil. I couldn't wait to share this delicious creation with my friends at the potluck. As I arrived at the BBQ, I could see the looks of curiosity on their faces as they saw the dish I had brought. I proudly presented my Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish to everyone, explaining how I had rediscovered the recipe and made it for the occasion.

As my friends dug into the dish, their eyes lit up with delight. The creamy polenta was a hit, with its rich and comforting flavor that melted in your mouth. The cherry tomato relish added a perfect touch of freshness and tanginess that balanced out the dish beautifully. I was so pleased with how well the dish turned out and how much everyone enjoyed it.

From that day on, Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish became a regular dish in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and any time I wanted to impress my guests with a unique and delicious dish. Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own twist by incorporating different herbs and spices. But the basic foundation of the dish remains the same, a testament to the timeless appeal of this classic recipe.

I often think back to that hot summer day when I rediscovered the recipe for Creamy Polenta with Cherry Tomato Relish. It was a moment of serendipity that led me to create a dish that has brought joy and satisfaction to so many people over the years. I am grateful to the friend who first shared the recipe with me, and to the culinary journey that has brought me to where I am today, a grandmother who loves to cook and share her passion for food with others.