Smoky Creamy Polenta with Sun Dried Tomatoes
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Smoky Creamy Polenta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, a rustic yet elegant dish that’s perfect as a hearty side or a vegetarian main course. Made with creamy coarse polenta simmered in a blend of water and whole milk, this recipe is elevated with the bold, smoky aroma of smoked paprika and the savory depth of grated Parmesan cheese. The addition of chopped sun-dried tomatoes lends a delightful tangy-sweet flavor, beautifully complemented by a buttery finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this polenta dish delivers a velvety texture with bursts of vibrant flavor in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and versatile option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it warm and watch it become an instant crowd-pleaser!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarse polenta (cornmeal)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
Gradually pour in the polenta (cornmeal), stirring continuously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.
Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for about 15 minutes or until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Stir in the whole milk, smoked paprika, and black pepper, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy.
Add the butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix thoroughly until the cheese and butter are melted and fully incorporated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper, if desired.
Transfer the polenta to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Serve immediately while warm, either as a main dish or a side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1883 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.9 g | 97% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.0 g | 180% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 175 mg | 58% | |
| Sodium | 4848 mg | 211% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 228.7 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.1 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.7 g | ||
| Protein | 66.1 g | 132% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.8 mcg | 14% | |
| Calcium | 1358 mg | 104% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 2514 mg | 53% | |
*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.
