Go Back
–+ servings
Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds that Melts in Your Mouth

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are a versatile, gluten-free appetizer that impresses with its delightful crunch and creamy center.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 rounds
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta Base
  • 1 cup cornmeal fine or medium for best texture
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for non-vegetarian
For the Creamy Mix
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated for best results
  • 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter for dairy-free
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for extra punch
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder or finely chopped fresh onion
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For Frying
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or canola/avocado oil
For Garnish
  • to taste fresh herbs such as parsley, basil or chives

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Spatula
  • Baking Dish
  • Skillet
  • cookie cutter
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of vegetable broth to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of cornmeal while stirring continuously to prevent lumps, cooking for about 30 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
  4. Pour the creamy polenta mixture into a greased baking dish and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Once firm, cut out 2-inch rounds using a cookie cutter or knife.
  7. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a skillet and fry the polenta rounds for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Transfer the fried rounds to the preheated oven, baking for another 10-15 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.

Nutrition

Serving: 2roundsCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze cooked rounds for up to 2 months and reheat at 400°F for a crisp texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!