Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup chopped zucchini; 1/2 cup corn kernels; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares. This recipe combines creamy polenta with vibrant vegetables, creating a delightful snack or appetizer. After baking them to golden perfection, the outer layer gets irresistibly crispy while the inside remains soft and flavorful. It's a versatile dish that I can customize with any seasonal veggies I have on hand. Whether served warm or cooled, these squares are always a hit at gatherings, and I can't wait for you to try them too!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:19:23.513Z

One of my favorite things about making Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares is how easy it is to experiment with different flavors. Recently, I added some fresh herbs and a touch of garlic for an aromatic twist. The combination of textures and tastes really elevates the dish, making it something you’d want at every occasion!

Additionally, I discovered that letting the polenta cool completely before cutting it into squares results in a firmer texture, allowing each bite to hold its shape better. This simple tip has transformed my crispy squares from good to absolutely delightful. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with a creamy polenta center
Versatile with your choice of seasonal veggies
Great for entertaining or a quick snack

      

Understanding Polenta

Polenta is a fantastic base for various dishes, thanks to its neutral flavor and creamy texture. When cooking the polenta, it's crucial to whisk continuously as you add it to the boiling vegetable broth. This prevents lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency. If the polenta is too thick, you can add a bit more broth to achieve the desired texture. Remember, it thickens further as it cools, so aim for a pourable consistency when removing it from the heat.

One of the key advantages of using polenta in this recipe is its ability to absorb flavors. As you mix in the sautéed vegetables, the polenta takes on their taste, creating a harmonious blend of savory notes. If you prefer a heartier snack, consider adding some cooked beans or lentils to the polenta mixture. This will boost protein content while keeping the creaminess intact.

Choosing and Preparing Vegetables

The vegetable selection for these squares is highly versatile, allowing you to utilize any seasonal produce you have on hand. For instance, you can swap zucchini with eggplant or include seasonal greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Just remember that if you use more moisture-rich vegetables, like tomatoes, it's best to sauté them a little longer to reduce excess moisture to maintain the structural integrity of the squares.

Sautéing the vegetables is a crucial step that brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Make sure to cook them until they are tender yet still vibrant in color. If you notice they start to brown too quickly, simply lower the heat and cook them a bit longer for even cooking. When adding seasonings, taste as you go to ensure the vegetables are well-seasoned but not overpowering.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Polenta Squares

To achieve the coveted crispy texture, it's essential to let your polenta cool completely in the fridge before baking. This process firms up the mixture, making it easier to cut into uniform squares. Ensure you spread the polenta evenly in the baking dish; uneven thickness can lead to some edges being overly crispy while others stay soggy. If you desire extra crunch, consider brushing the squares lightly with olive oil before baking.

After baking, allow the squares to cool for a few minutes before serving, as they will remain hot and soft inside. If you're making these ahead of time, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive their crispiness while keeping the inside creamy. Storing leftovers is easy; just place any extra squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Ingredients

For the Polenta

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Veggies

1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup chopped zucchini
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly until thickened. Cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, if using, along with salt and pepper.

Mix in the Vegetables

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté bell peppers, zucchini, corn, and green onions for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine and Set to Cool

Fold the sautéed vegetables into the polenta mixture. Pour the combined mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to set.

Bake the Squares

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Once cooled, cut the polenta into squares. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy Your Snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your veggies or add spices to suit your taste. A sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving makes it even more delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares can be served on their own as a delightful snack, but they also pair wonderfully with various dips. For a refreshing touch, serve them alongside a zesty salsa or homemade guacamole. If you're feeling adventurous, try them with a tangy yogurt sauce mixed with herbs; it complements the flavors beautifully and adds a creamy contrast.

If you're hosting a gathering, these squares can be cut into smaller pieces and arranged on a platter for easy serving. Garnishing them with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness. This dish is also perfect for a buffet-style meal, allowing guests to pick and enjoy them at their leisure.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For best results, store any leftover polenta squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them after baking. To do this, allow the squares to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen squares, you can bake them straight from the freezer; just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes until they are heated through and crispy. This makes for a convenient snack or appetizer, ensuring you have a tasty treat on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the polenta and vegetables a day in advance. Just bake them before you serve.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can substitute any favorite vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, based on what you have available.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.