Introduction
Indulging in a delightful dinner can be both satisfying and easy to prepare. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes with creamy goat cheese and hearty polenta, creating a wholesome meal that is sure to please. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a colorful, nutritious dinner that showcases the beauty of fresh produce and comfort food.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 3 cups cherry tomatoes (or small tomatoes – tricolor or heirloom are super pretty!)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 3 cloves garlic
– 3 cups spinach
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup corn grits or polenta
– 4 ounces goat cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Prep Time
– 15 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 1 hour
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
– Yield: Serves approximately 4
This recipe not only celebrates the delightful tastes of summer but also brings together textures that complement each other beautifully. Enjoy making this simple yet impressive dish for your next dinner gathering or a quiet evening at home!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water, then spread them on a baking sheet and pat them dry with a paper towel. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes and toss them lightly to coat. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for 10 minutes, then gently turn them over. Continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are nicely browned. For extra browning, you can increase the oven temperature to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for the last few minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In a large heavy pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic gently until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it brown, as browned garlic has a bitter taste. After the garlic is aromatic, add the spinach to the pan and turn off the heat. Stir the spinach continuously for about a minute until it wilts and reduces in size. Once wilted, transfer the spinach to a bowl and set aside. Wipe out the pan with a paper towel to remove any residue.
Step 3: Prepare the Polenta
In the same pan used for the spinach, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the corn grits or polenta while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta over low heat, stirring occasionally, for approximately 15 minutes or until it thickens. After thickening, incorporate the goat cheese and salt into the polenta, stirring until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Serve
Distribute the creamy polenta on serving plates. Top it generously with the roasted cherry tomatoes and sautéed spinach. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Polenta Consistency
The polenta tends to thicken and harden as it cools. For this recipe, a softer polenta consistency is preferred. If needed, you can loosen it by adding a little water or milk and whisking until smooth.
Using Cornmeal Instead of Polenta
You can make polenta using regular cornmeal by following the directions in this recipe. However, polenta corn grits yield a better consistency, so it is recommended to use them when possible.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Cook techniques
Roasting Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes involves cooking them in the oven at high heat until they become tender and caramelized. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Ensure to turn them halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
Sautéing Garlic
Sautéing garlic is done by gently cooking it in oil over low to medium heat. The goal is to release its fragrance without burning it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Wilting Spinach
Wilting spinach is achieved by quickly cooking it in a hot pan until it softens and reduces in volume. This process helps retain nutrients while making it tender enough to incorporate into dishes.
Cooking Polenta
Cooking polenta involves bringing water to a boil and then whisking in corn grits or cornmeal, allowing it to simmer until it thickens. Continuous stirring helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
Incorporating Goat Cheese
Incorporating goat cheese into polenta or similar dishes is done by adding it to the hot mixture and stirring until it’s fully melted and combined. This adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with other cheeses such as feta, cream cheese, or even parmesan based on your flavor preference.
What can I do if the polenta thickens too much?
If the polenta thickens, simply add a little water or milk and whisk until you achieve the desired consistency.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pan, as it contains more moisture than fresh spinach.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan, adding a splash of water or milk if necessary.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any additional ingredients used are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
This delightful dish featuring roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and flavorful polenta is not only visually appealing but also rich in taste and nutrients. It’s a perfect choice for a wholesome dinner, showcasing the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and the comforting texture of polenta. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this meal as a centerpiece for any gathering.
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