Polenta with Garlicky Greens
Savor the comforting warmth of Polenta with Garlicky Greens, a rustic yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This recipe marries creamy, buttery polenta—infused with Parmesan cheese for a rich, nutty flavor—with a hearty medley of garlicky sautéed greens like kale, spinach, or chard. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick, balancing the earthy, savory notes of the greens. Ready in just 40 minutes, this wholesome, vegetarian meal is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for showcasing seasonal produce, it's a versatile dish that can be served as a standalone entrée or paired with your favorite protein. Whether you're seeking comfort food or a nutritious dinner option, this recipe hits all the right notes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., kale, spinach, chard)
- 0.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, making sure to avoid clumping.
Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes, until thick and creamy.
Remove the polenta from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Cover and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Add 6 cups of mixed greens to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the garlic and oil.
Season the greens with 0.5 teaspoons of red pepper flakes, 0.5 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
To serve, divide the creamy polenta among bowls and top with the garlicky greens. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy a warm, hearty meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
306 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.5 g | 17% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.0 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 851 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.1 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.7 g | ||
| Protein | 12.4 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 294 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 198 mg | 4% | |
*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.
