Goat Cheese Polenta with Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy dish packed with flavor and healthy vegetables, Goat Cheese Polenta with Roasted Vegetables is a must-try. This versatile recipe is ideal for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The earthy sweetness of roasted vegetables combined with the creamy tanginess of goat cheese polenta creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
For the Polenta:
- 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 small eggplant, cubed
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Roasted Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced vegetables (bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant) with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice like rosemary or thyme.
Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not too crowded to allow even roasting. Roast the vegetables for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
2. Cook the Polenta
While the vegetables are roasting, bring the broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the polenta is thick and smooth. This should take around 15-20 minutes.
Once the polenta has reached your desired consistency, stir in the butter and goat cheese. Mix well until the goat cheese is fully melted, and the polenta is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve and Enjoy
To serve, spoon the creamy goat cheese polenta onto a plate or into a bowl. Top it generously with the roasted vegetables. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top, sprinkle with fresh herbs, or add a touch of grated Parmesan if you like.
This dish is excellent on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of salad or a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious polenta. You can also add protein, like grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms, for a more filling meal.
Tips for Success
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: If you aren’t a fan of goat cheese, try using feta or ricotta for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the butter and cheese with vegan alternatives and use vegetable broth to keep the dish plant-based.
- Batch Cooking: Both the roasted vegetables and polenta can be made ahead of time. Simply reheat the polenta with a bit of water or broth to regain its creamy consistency before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This Goat Cheese Polenta with Roasted Vegetables dish is packed with nutrients. Polenta is a great source of fiber and is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities. The roasted vegetables provide an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while goat cheese adds calcium and protein with a tangy twist.
Goat Cheese Polenta with Roasted Vegetables is a simple yet elegant dish that can easily be adapted to your tastes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something comforting, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables with a creamy, flavorful base.
Here is the estimated nutritional information for the Goat Cheese Polenta with Roasted Vegetables recipe. Please note that this is a general estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4 servings) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Total Fat | 17g |
– Saturated Fat | 7g |
– Monounsaturated Fat | 6g |
– Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g |
Cholesterol | 20mg |
Sodium | 600mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
– Dietary Fiber | 5g |
– Sugars | 8g |
Protein | 10g |
Vitamin A | 35% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Calcium | 10% DV |
Iron | 12% DV |
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Good source of fiber from vegetables and polenta
- Rich in vitamins A and C due to the variety of roasted vegetables
- Moderate protein from goat cheese and vegetables
- Healthy fats from olive oil and goat cheese
This meal provides a balance of macronutrients, with a focus on whole foods, and is especially rich in antioxidants from the vegetables.