Grilled Polenta Crostini 

These grilled polenta crostini are the perfect snack or light dinner. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly and easily. You won't be disappointed.

The polenta is first cooked until tender, then grilled until crisp. topped with your favorite toppings, they're irresistible. So next time you're looking for an easy, delicious meal, give this grilled polenta a try.

The Goodness of Grilled Polenta

Grilled Polenta Crostini is a dish that originated in Italy. It is made of cornmeal that is boiled in water or milk, and then it is grilled. The dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course. Grilled Polenta Crostini is a healthy dish because it is low in fat and calories. The dish is also a good source of fiber and protein. Grilled Polenta Crostini is a versatile dish because it can be paired with different toppings such as tomatoes, pesto, mushrooms, and cheese. Grilled Polenta Crostini is a tasty and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.

Prep time: 10 minutes (+ time to chill)
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Serves: 6

Jump to:

• The Goodness of Grilled Polenta
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Substitutions
• Storage
• Top tip

Ingredients

• Ingredients:
  5 c. water
• 1 c. medium or coarse polenta or cornmeal 
• Sea salt, to taste
• (Optional) 2 T. unsalted butter
  2 T. Pecorino Romano cheese
  2 T. fresh parsley leaves, chopped 

Instructions

Directions:

1. Grease an 8” x 8” glass baking dish with olive oil (or spray with a non-stick cooking spray). Set aside.
   
2. Heat water in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until almost boiling. Once water starts to bubble, whisk in polenta or cornmeal and continue stirring continually until it starts to thicken. Season with salt, to taste, and stir to combine.
   
3. Reduce heat to just below medium and continue cooking, stirring every 4-5 minutes, until the polenta pulls away from the side of the pan and the cornmeal becomes soft and tender, approximately 40-45 minutes.
   
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, if using. Taste and add more salt, if desired. Transfer polenta into prepared baking dish in a smooth, even layer. Cover and refrigerate until polenta is firm to the touch, at least 1-2 hours.
   
5. Remove from refrigerator and gently loosen around the edges of the baking dish with a butter knife or thin spatula. Place a paper towel over the top of the polenta and hold it in place with your hand. Gently turn the baking dish upside down while supporting the contents with your hand. Tap the bottom of the baking dish until the polenta is released.
   
6. Carefully transfer the solid sheet of polenta to a cutting board. Cut the polenta into quarters, then cut each quarter in half diagonally to create 8 wedges.
   
7. Spray a grill pan or the grates of a gas grill with non-stick cooking spray. (Clean the gas grill grates with a stiff wire brush before spraying). Heat grill pan over medium heat or pre-heat gas grill to medium.
   
8. Brush both sides of each polenta wedge with a little olive oil before placing it on the hot surface. Grill until each wedge is golden brown and nice grill marks appear. Flip and repeat on other side.
   
9. Remove grilled wedges from heat and serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as Tuscan Meat Ragu. Top with some shaved Pecorino Romano cheese and chopped fresh parsley and enjoy! 

Substitutions

Looking to make Grilled Polenta Crostini but don't have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some possible substitutes that you can use:

• Instead of polenta, you can use any other type of cornmeal. Just make sure to cook it longer so it has time to firm up.
• If you don't have romano cheese, you can substitute cream cheese or ricotta instead.
• If you don't have fresh parsley leaves, you can use dried basil or thyme.

With these substitutions, you should be able to easily make Grilled Polenta Crostini even if you don't have all the ingredients on hand. So go ahead and give it a try

Storage

Grilled Polenta Crostini can last in the fridge for up to three days. When stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh and crispy. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes until warm. These crostini are the perfect party snack or appetizer, and they can be made ahead of time so you can enjoy your guests without having to worry about cooking. Grilled Polenta Crostini are a delicious and easy way to impress your guests, so be sure to give them a try the next time you entertain.