Experience the ultimate guilt-free indulgence with these Heart-Healthy Crispy Polenta Fries! Crafted from creamy polenta cooked in low-sodium vegetable broth and enriched with flavors like Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano, these golden-baked strips are a nutritious alternative to traditional fries. Perfectly seasoned and oven-crisped with a touch of extra-virgin olive oil, they offer a delightful crunch while keeping things light. Served warm and garnished with fresh parsley, these wholesome fries make a stellar snack or side dish for health-conscious food lovers. Easy to prepare and packed with savory flavors, theyβre a surefire way to satisfy your cravings while supporting a heart-healthy lifestyle!
In a medium saucepan, bring the low-sodium vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat.
Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture is thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground black pepper, and salt.
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a small amount of olive oil.
Pour the polenta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to about 1/2-inch thick.
Let the polenta cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes or until completely firm.
Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
Once firm, remove the polenta from the refrigerator and cut into fry-shaped strips.
Transfer the fries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush or lightly spray them with the remaining olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm as a healthy snack or side dish!
Calories |
993 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 27.4 g | 35% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.9 g | 34% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1368 mg | 59% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 169.8 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.2 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.3 g | ||
| Protein | 22.7 g | 45% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 273 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 6.3 mg | 35% | |
| Potassium | 944 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.