Heart-Healthy Cheesy Polenta
Indulge in comforting yet nutritious flavors with this Heart-Healthy Cheesy Polenta recipe, a lighter twist on the classic comfort food. Made with wholesome ingredients like creamy low-fat ricotta, savory Parmesan, and protein-packed nutritional yeast, this polenta achieves rich cheesiness without excess fat or sodium. Slowly simmered in a blend of water and low-sodium vegetable broth, it boasts a velvety texture that's perfect for pairing with grilled veggies or fresh salads. A drizzle of olive oil, a hint of freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of fragrant basil elevate this dish into a delightful experience that's both delicious and guilt-free. Ready in under an hour, this versatile recipe caters to healthy eating goals while delivering the cozy satisfaction you crave.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Polenta (cornmeal)
- 4 cups Water
- 1 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Nutritional yeast
- 1 cup Low-fat ricotta cheese
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
In a large pot, bring the water and low-sodium vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
Gradually whisk in the polenta to prevent clumping, reducing the heat to low. Stir frequently as the mixture thickens, taking care to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Cook the polenta for about 20-25 minutes, adding more water as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
Once the polenta has thickened and is smooth, stir in the nutritional yeast, low-fat ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
Add the olive oil, freshly ground black pepper, and salt, mixing well.
Remove the pot from the heat and let the polenta sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve the polenta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy as a side dish or a main course with grilled veggies or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1475 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.2 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.1 g | 96% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 114 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 1315 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 202.8 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.8 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.2 g | ||
| Protein | 58.6 g | 117% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 986 mg | 76% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 921 mg | 20% | |
*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.
