Description
Baked Parmesan Polenta Croutons are a delightful addition to any meal, offering crispy texture and savory flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup cornmeal or polenta
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1 1/2 cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Place it over medium heat and keep an eye on it as it heats up.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Stir frequently for 15-20 minutes, or until the polenta becomes very thick and sticky, resembling a creamy cornmeal porridge.
- Once thick, mix in 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
- Transfer the polenta onto a sheet of plastic wrap or into a greased baking dish. Shape it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 15-20 minutes.
- As the polenta cools and firms, preheat your oven to 450°F.
- After chilling, cut the polenta block into 1/2 inch cubes. Arrange the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake the polenta cubes for 25-30 minutes, turning them every 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once baked, serve these delightful croutons over your favorite salad or even as a snack on their own.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg