Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
Highlighted under: Rustic Recipes
I love making polenta with gorgonzola and walnuts because it brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the delightful crunch of walnuts. This dish is not only comforting but also surprisingly simple to prepare. I usually whip it up as a cozy weeknight dinner or as a side for a festive gathering. The combination of flavors always impresses my family and friends, and the aromas that fill the kitchen while it's cooking are simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!
When I first tried polenta, I was amazed by its versatility. It’s a fantastic base that can adapt to a variety of flavors and textures. The addition of gorgonzola cheese adds a wonderful depth to the dish while walnuts introduce a satisfying crunch. I once prepared this for a dinner party and ended up doubling the recipe because my guests couldn't get enough!
One of my favorite tips is to toast the walnuts before adding them, which enhances their nutty flavor. I also like to use freshly grated gorgonzola to ensure a rich taste. It's these little details that make such a big difference in the final dish, and I encourage you to try them out!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy with a deliciously nutty crunch
- Perfectly suited for both casual meals and special occasions
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Polenta
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Gorgonzola cheese
For the Topping
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Black pepper to taste
Enjoy your delicious polenta!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Polenta
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the salt. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat and cook for about 30 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently.
Incorporate the Cheese
Once the polenta is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the olive oil and grated Gorgonzola cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Toast the Walnuts
In a small skillet, toast the chopped walnuts over medium heat for 5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls, top with toasted walnuts, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delightful dish!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the polenta. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make polenta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the polenta a few hours in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a bit of water to loosen it up.
→ Is there a substitute for Gorgonzola?
If you prefer a milder cheese, you can substitute Gorgonzola with feta or goat cheese, though the flavor will differ.
→ What can I serve with this polenta?
Polenta pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for stews.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover polenta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
I love making polenta with gorgonzola and walnuts because it brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the delightful crunch of walnuts. This dish is not only comforting but also surprisingly simple to prepare. I usually whip it up as a cozy weeknight dinner or as a side for a festive gathering. The combination of flavors always impresses my family and friends, and the aromas that fill the kitchen while it's cooking are simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!
Created by: Kitty Lawrence
Recipe Type: Rustic Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Polenta
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Gorgonzola cheese
For the Topping
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Black pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the salt. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat and cook for about 30 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently.
Once the polenta is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the olive oil and grated Gorgonzola cheese until fully melted and creamy.
In a small skillet, toast the chopped walnuts over medium heat for 5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls, top with toasted walnuts, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper. Serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the polenta. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g