Flavored Polenta

Transform your mealtime with this rich and creamy Flavored Polenta recipe, a comforting Italian staple elevated with bold flavors and a luxurious texture. Made with simple ingredients like cornmeal, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a hint of fresh thyme, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes, blending ease and elegance. The optional addition of heavy cream creates an irresistibly velvety finish, making it perfect as a savory side dish or a hearty base for roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or sautéed seafood. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight companion or a gourmet accompaniment for your next dinner party, this quick and flavorful polenta is sure to delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Cornmeal (polenta)
• 4 cups Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 2 cloves Minced Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Directions

Step 1

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the salt to the water.

Step 2

Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the cornmeal while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 3

Continue stirring the polenta with a wooden spoon or whisk for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pot.

Step 4

Stir in the butter, minced garlic, and fresh thyme (if using). Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.

Step 5

Turn off the heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra creaminess.

Step 6

Season the polenta with black pepper and adjust salt to taste if needed.

Step 7

Transfer the polenta to a serving bowl or plate. You can garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs for presentation.

Step 8

Serve hot as a side dish or as a base for sautéed vegetables, roasted meats, or other toppings.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1352.8 grams (1352.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1426

Total Fat 49.50g	63%
Saturated Fat 30.30g	152%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 147mg	49%
Sodium 3901mg	170%
Total Carbohydrate 194.70g	71%
Dietary Fiber 9.70g	35%
Total Sugars 3.00g
Protein 50.60g	101%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 997mg	77%
Iron 5mg	30%
Potassium 393mg	8%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.2%

Protein: 14.2%

Carbs: 54.6%