How to Make Creamy Polenta with Gorgonzola and Toasted Walnuts

Simple Summary

Creamy polenta topped with tangy Gorgonzola cheese and crunchy walnuts creates a luxurious Italian-inspired dish that's both comforting and elegant.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.

2. Slowly whisk in the polenta and salt, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes or until the polenta is thick and creamy.

4. While the polenta cooks, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside.

5. Once the polenta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the butter and heavy cream until fully incorporated.

6. Gently fold in half of the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, allowing it to melt slightly.

7. Divide the polenta among serving bowls.

8. Top each serving with the remaining Gorgonzola, toasted walnuts, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

9. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

10. Serve immediately while the polenta is still hot and creamy.

Chef's Notes

• For a smoother polenta, use fine cornmeal instead of coarse.
• If the polenta becomes too thick while cooking, add a little hot water or milk to thin it out.
• To make this dish vegetarian, ensure you use vegetarian-friendly Gorgonzola (some blue cheeses contain animal rennet).
• Leftover polenta can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk or water. It will become firm when cooled, but will soften again when heated.
• For a nuttier flavor, try substituting half of the walnuts with pine nuts.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 30g (with healthy omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts)
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This dish is rich in calcium from the Gorgonzola cheese and provides a good source of protein and healthy fats from the walnuts.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like Chianti.
• For a complete meal, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs like thyme or sage for extra flavor.
• This dish is perfect for autumn dinners or as a sophisticated side for holiday meals.