Instructions: I keep tubed polenta around for quick and easy meals. I simply slice it and then heat it and use as a base for various toppings. You can heat it by frying (with our without a little oil or spray), grilling, broiling, toasting, or baking. I suppose you could also use the microwave, but I prefer the polenta when it has a little crust on the outside, rather than being totally soft. Vary the cooking times and determine whether you prefer a very crispy texture or a more soft one.

For toppings, use anything you would put on pasta or rice. Just remember it does have a strong corn flavor when you select the topping. I personally like anything tomato based.

I typically use pre-made spaghetti sauce and some microwaved frozen veggies. A little cheese is nice, too.

Chili is also great spooned over polenta. Or any flavored beans such as chili beans, or black beans with cumin and onion, etc. Seasoned canned tomatoes with the beans or alone are also good.

A bean salad would be good on top of polenta. Or serve the polenta on top of any green or vegetable salad.

Mushroom gravy would be good, as would greens (spinach, chard, etc) sauteed with garlic.

Some people like to eat the slices topped with maple syrup for breakfast.

I also serve the heated polenta slices, plain, as a simple accompaniment to a meal, similar to cornbread or a roll.

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