Elevate your vegetarian dining experience with this stunning Polenta Veggie Stack—a visually striking and flavor-packed dish that combines creamy Parmesan-infused polenta with layers of roasted zucchini, eggplant, and sweet red bell peppers, all topped with a vibrant homemade tomato-garlic sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or an impressive meatless main course, this recipe showcases rich textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The oven-roasted vegetables bring a caramelized depth, while fresh basil adds a burst of aromatic freshness. Easy to assemble and ideal for entertaining, this dish is naturally gluten-free and customizable for various dietary needs. Try this Polenta Veggie Stack for a wholesome, gourmet twist on comfort food!
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the salt, then slowly whisk in the polenta.
Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 25-30 minutes or until the polenta is thick and creamy.
Remove the polenta from heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan. Transfer the polenta to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly to about 1/2 inch thick. Allow it to cool and set for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the zucchini, eggplant, and red bell pepper on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with black pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a small saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Use a round cookie cutter to cut the set polenta into discs. Alternatively, cut into squares for ease.
In a serving dish, layer a polenta disc, followed by roasted vegetables, a spoonful of tomato sauce, and a few pieces of chopped basil. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Serve warm and enjoy your Polenta Veggie Stack.
Calories |
375 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 20.1 g | 26% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.0 g | 45% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 847 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.2 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.5 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.5 g | ||
| Protein | 14.1 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 279 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 543 mg | 12% | |
*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.