Discover the irresistible Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds, an exciting dish where creamy polenta meets a crunchy fried exterior. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these versatile rounds are loaded with flavor and nutrition. Made from cornmeal, they are gluten-free and rich in dietary fiber. Learn how to craft these delicious bites with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, and impress your guests with endless serving suggestions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The preparation of polenta is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a delightful dish.
• Flavorful Crunch: The combination of crispy edges and creamy centers makes for a delicious texture contrast that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: These rounds can be topped or served with various accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Being gluten-free and rich in fiber, they cater to those looking for healthier snacking options.
• Great for Leftovers: If you have leftover polenta, transforming it into these crispy rounds is a fantastic way to reduce waste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process is efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Ideal for achieving that golden-brown crispiness on the outside of your polenta rounds.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking multiple rounds at once, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before shaping your polenta.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the rounds without breaking them during cooking.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Polenta Mixture

• Cornmeal
• Vegetable broth
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt
• Black pepper

For Frying

• Olive oil

How to Make Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Step 1: Prepare the Polenta

1. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in cornmeal until smooth. Reduce heat to low.
3. Stir continuously until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Shape the Rounds

1. Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
2. Let it cool completely until set (about 30 minutes).
3. Once set, cut into round shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.

Step 3: Fry the Rounds

1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Carefully add polenta rounds to the hot oil; fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each side).
3. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve your Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds warm.
2. Consider topping them with fresh herbs or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a party or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these rounds can elevate your meal experience.

As an Appetizer

• Dipping Sauces: Pair with marinara, pesto, or aioli for delightful dipping options.
• Toppings: Add fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for added flavor.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Top a bed of mixed greens with polenta rounds for a crunchy texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted veggies for a wholesome salad option.

As a Snack

• Cheese Spread: Serve with creamy cheese spreads or hummus for easy snacking.
• Charcuterie Board: Include in a charcuterie board alongside fruits and nuts for variety.

With Soups

• Soup Sidekick: Use as a crunchy side to complement creamy soups like tomato or butternut squash.
• Floaties: Place polenta rounds directly in the soup for added texture.

How to Perfect Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Achieving the perfect crispy texture is essential for making Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds. Follow these tips to ensure your rounds are deliciously crunchy every time.

• Bold Cooking Technique: Frying the rounds gives them that desired crispiness. Use oil at the right temperature to achieve golden-brown perfection.
• Bold Chill Time: Allow the polenta to cool completely before frying. This helps it firm up and hold its shape better during cooking.
• Bold Seasoning Choice: Ensure you season the polenta mixture adequately with salt and pepper before it sets. This boosts flavor throughout the rounds.
• Bold Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and optimal melting properties.
• Bold Batch Size: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Bold Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant adds color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Bold Tomato Salad: Fresh tomato salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar complements the richness of polenta.
3. Bold Garlic Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic provides a healthy green side that balances textures well.
4. Bold Roasted Potatoes: Herb-seasoned roasted potatoes create a satisfying contrast to the crispy polenta rounds.
5. Bold Creamy Risotto: Pairing with risotto adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of polenta.
6. Bold Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a light touch that can brighten up your meal while providing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking with polenta can be delightful, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results.

• Bold consistency: Not cooking the polenta long enough can lead to a gritty texture. Make sure to simmer for the full cooking time until it’s creamy.
• Bold seasoning: Skipping out on seasoning will leave your polenta bland. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper before frying.
• Bold cooling time: Cutting the polenta rounds too soon may result in them falling apart. Allow sufficient cooling time for better structure.
• Bold oil temperature: Using oil that’s too cold can make your rounds greasy. Ensure the oil is hot enough for a perfect crispy finish.
• Bold overcrowding pan: Overloading the frying pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy rounds. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can last up to 3-4 days when properly stored.

Freezing Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

• For longer storage, freeze the polenta rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may result in softer textures.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary, until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds.

What To Make With Polenta?

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are versatile! You can serve them as appetizers, snacks, or sides with various dips and sauces.

How Do I Store Leftover Polenta?

Store leftover polenta rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for later use.

Can I Use Different Cheeses?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for unique flavors.

Are Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds Gluten-Free?

Yes, these rounds are made from cornmeal and are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are a delightful addition to any meal. Their crunchy exterior paired with a creamy inside makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize your toppings or dips based on your preferences and enjoy this versatile dish at your next gathering!

Print

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are a delightful fusion of creamy cornmeal and a crunchy exterior that make for an irresistible appetizer, snack, or side dish. These gluten-free bites are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy evening at home. With the right balance of crispy edges and a smooth center, they offer endless possibilities for toppings and dipping sauces. Whether paired with marinara, topped with fresh herbs, or served alongside hearty salads, these polenta rounds are sure to elevate any meal.

---

Ingredients

• Cornmeal
• Vegetable broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil

---

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in cornmeal until smooth, then reduce heat to low.
2. Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking sheet and spread evenly. Cool completely (about 30 minutes) before cutting into round shapes.
4. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the polenta rounds until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each side). Drain on paper towels before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 rounds (70g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices into the polenta mixture before setting. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for unique variations. Pair these rounds with your favorite dipping sauces such as pesto or garlic aioli.