Description
This comforting Italian-inspired dish combines creamy, cheesy polenta with a vibrant topping of tender spinach and hearty white beans. It’s a satisfying vegetarian meal that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in just 40 minutes. The contrast between the smooth polenta base and the textured vegetable topping creates a delightful dining experience that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the polenta is thick and creamy.
- While the polenta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until wilted. Stir in the white beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Once the polenta is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- To serve, spoon the creamy polenta onto plates and top with the spinach and white bean mixture. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter with the Parmesan cheese. You can substitute the fresh spinach with frozen spinach (thawed and drained) if needed. This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: polenta, spinach, white beans, parmesan, vegetarian, comfort food, Italian, one-pot