Cheesy Polenta Fingers

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 13

Cheesy Polenta Fingers: a delicious and simple appetizer option

by The Chefin Appetizer

Prep

10 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

60 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

276

Sugar

Fat

10g

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that is made from boiled cornmeal. It is often served as a side dish or as a base for stews or sauces. Cheesy Polenta Fingers are a fun and delicious way to enjoy polenta as an appetizer or snack. These fingers are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are bursting with cheesy flavor. They are a great alternative to traditional chips or crackers, and can be enjoyed with a variety of dips and sauces.

Instructions

1.	Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2.	In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil and add the salt. Slowly pour in the cornmeal/polenta, whisking continuously.
3.	Reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot, for approximately 20-30 minutes.
4.	Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the parmesan cheese and olive oil until thoroughly combined.
5.	Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6.	Let the mixture cool and set in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour or until it has hardened.
7.	Once the polenta is firm, use a sharp knife to cut the polenta into finger-sized pieces.
8.	Place the fingers onto a greased baking sheet and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

PROS

Cheesy Polenta Fingers are quick and simple to make, and are a great appetizer option to serve guests or to take to a party.

They are vegetarian and gluten-free, and can be served with a variety of dips and sauces.

Polenta can also be served as an alternative to traditional potatoes or pasta.

CONS

Polenta can be high in calories and carbohydrates.

It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The fingers can also be quite filling, so it is important to be conscious of portion sizes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Polenta is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy.
It is also a good source of fiber and protein.
Polenta can be used as an alternative to other grains such as rice or pasta, and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit different dietary needs.

	1 1 cup white cornmeal or 1 cup polenta
	4 cups water , divided
	1 teaspoon salt
	1 cup grated parmesan cheese
	2 tablespoons olive oil