Grilled Polenta With Gorgonzola

Polenta is very versatile and is a great make ahead dish. The polenta should be prepared in the morning, then let to sit in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat. We adapted this recipe for grilling by putting the cheese on top instead of inside the polenta. It is quickly grilled and then ready to garnish and served as an appetizer, side dish or even main course. Another time, try serving it with a marinara sauce, or for a Mexican twist, with salsa and black beans (and lots of cilantro!)

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups cornmeal
  • 6 cups water or chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tsp Mediterranean rub (stay tuned for more information about our product line; meanwhile, substitute Italian Seasoning)
  • 3 tbsps butter
  • 3 ounces gorgonzola cheese, sliced

SUNDRIED TOMATO VINAIGRETTE

  • 2 tbsp sundried tomatoes, packed in oil, finely chopped
  • 4 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped – recommend basil and fennel
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp sherry vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp grainy mustard
  • 1/2 tsp honey
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

  1. Prepare polenta by combining cornmeal, water, salt, and herbs in a large saucepan, whisking until blended. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking constantly. As you notice the cornmeal thickening, keep stirring, reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Stir every 3 – 4 minutes to prevent scorching. When the polenta is thick and creamy, it will start to pull away from the sides of the pot. Add butter. Transfer to a small baking sheet which has been lined with plastic wrap. Flatten and smooth the surface with your hand, or a flat spatula dipped in water. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours.
  2. Prepare the vinaigrette by chopping herbs, sundried tomato, garlic and salt together. Scrape off the cutting board and add to a glass jar. Add sherry vinegar, grainy mustard, honey and extra virgin olive oil. Shake vigorously and set aside.
  3. Preheat grill on MEDIUM-HIGH. Cut polenta into triangles, brush with oil and grill 4 minutes. Turn and top with gorgonzola cheese and cook another 4 minutes. When ready to serve, drizzle vinaigrette over top. If serving as an appetizer or main course, plate on top of a bed of arugula.