On a sun-drenched afternoon, while wandering through a vibrant farmer’s market, I stumbled upon a stall overflowing with plump cherry tomatoes. Their radiant hues reminded me of summer sunsets, and I knew I had to create a dish that would celebrate their sweetness. As I wandered further, the scent of fresh herbs wafted through the air, and inspiration struck. I envisioned a creamy polenta, infused with aromatic herbs, and topped with a burst of roasted tomatoes. This dish became a staple in my kitchen, a comforting embrace filled with the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
1 cup cornmeal
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
To begin, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Stir in the salt and slowly whisk in the cornmeal, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy.
As the polenta simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss them gently to coat and spread them out in an even layer. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, until they’re blistered and caramelized, releasing their sweet juices.
Once the polenta reaches a creamy consistency, stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese (if using), fresh thyme, and basil. Mix well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
When the tomatoes are ready, remove them from the oven, and let them cool slightly. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the herb-infused polenta onto each plate. Top with the roasted cherry tomatoes, allowing their juices to mingle with the polenta, creating a luscious sauce.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this dish warm, savoring the comforting flavors and vibrant colors that remind you of that beautiful day at the market. Each bite transports you back to the sun-soaked stalls filled with nature’s bounty, and you can’t help but smile.