In the heart of a sun-dappled Italian countryside, I discovered the joy of polenta during a leisurely afternoon spent with friends. We gathered around a rustic wooden table, savoring the rich flavors of traditional dishes. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow, I was inspired to create a dish that encapsulated that magical moment. The result? A creamy, herb-infused polenta topped with sweet, caramelized cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor. This recipe invites you to recreate that sun-kissed experience right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 clove garlic, minced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Begin by bringing the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. As the broth heats, prepare yourself for the delightful transformation of polenta. Slowly whisk in the polenta, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, butter, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the polenta simmer, stirring occasionally, while you move on to the roasted cherry tomatoes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly before spreading them out in a single layer.
Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. The aroma will fill your kitchen and transport you to that Italian countryside.
Once the polenta is creamy and the tomatoes are roasted to perfection, serve the polenta warm on a plate, creating a small well in the center. Spoon the roasted cherry tomatoes over the polenta, allowing their juices to mingle with the creamy base.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Each bite will be a delightful dance of flavors, reminiscent of lazy afternoons spent with good friends and delicious food. Enjoy this vibrant dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your dining table!