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Grilled Polenta Stacks With Marinara and Mozzarella
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Equipment:
Medium saucepan
grill or grill pan
baking dish
spatula
knife
Cuisine Type: Italian-American
Grilled Polenta Stacks With Marinara and Mozzarella is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with a hearty, comforting texture. This recipe features layers of grilled polenta topped with marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
The grilling process adds a lovely smoky flavor that perfectly complements the tangy marinara and creamy cheese. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also quite versatile. You can customize the stacks by adding additional toppings such as sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Perfect for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, these polenta stacks are sure to impress with their vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 tube (18 ounces) prepared polenta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Start by slicing the prepared polenta into ½-inch thick rounds. This will create the base for your stacks. You should be able to get about 12 slices from one tube of polenta.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the polenta slices lightly with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper.
- Once the grill is hot, place the polenta slices on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until you achieve nice grill marks and a slightly crispy texture. Remove the grilled polenta from the heat and set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer three slices of grilled polenta, followed by a generous spoonful of marinara sauce, and top with slices of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process to create two or three layers, depending on your preference and the height of your dish.
- Preheat your oven to broil. Once heated, place the baking dish in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your marinara sauce, consider simmering it with garlic or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you prefer a richer taste, you can also add cooked ground meat or sautéed mushrooms between the layers.
For a gluten-free option, make sure that your polenta is certified gluten-free and serve with a side salad for a fresh accompaniment.
Enjoy your delicious grilled polenta stacks!