Instructions: Bring water to a boil in a 2-quart saucepan and slowly add polenta, whisking constantly. Cook polenta over moderate heat, whisking constantly, 5 minutes. Remove from heat, add butter, and salt and pepper to taste.

On a lightly oiled baking sheet spread warm polenta about 3/4-inch thick and cool to room temperature. Polenta may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered. Cut polenta into 1 1/2-inch diamond shapes or squares.

In skillet saute polenta in 2 batches in 2 tablespoons olive oil over moderately-high heat, turning occasionally, adding additional oil to skillet if necessary, until golden on both sides. Transfer polenta as cooked with a slotted spoon to platter and cover. Serve polenta sprinkled with Parmesan.

This recipe yields 4 servings.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.