Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares as they offer a delightful crunch combined with a flavorful blend of vegetables. The creamy polenta acts as the perfect base, allowing the toppings to shine. Whether it’s for a casual appetizer or a side dish, these squares are always a hit. The best part is how versatile they are; you can customize the veggies according to what you have on hand. It’s a hearty snack that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:02:34.642Z

When I first made these Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares, I was surprised by how easily they came together. I had some leftover polenta and decided to jazz it up with whatever vegetables I had in the fridge. The crispy texture achieved from baking is simply irresistible!

I've learned that allowing the polenta to cool completely before cutting it into squares is crucial for getting that perfect crisp. Adding an array of colorful vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation that impresses guests. Give it a try, and you’ll see why they disappeared so quickly at my last gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deliciously crispy exterior with a soft, creamy inside
Loaded with fresh vegetables for vibrant color and flavor
Great for entertaining or a cozy night in

Understanding Polenta

Polenta is a versatile base that can create a delightful contrast between crispy and creamy textures. When cooking polenta, it’s essential to stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure an even consistency. Allowing it to cool completely before slicing will help the squares maintain their shape while baking. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add more vegetable broth or even a splash of milk for richness before spreading it into the baking dish.

Another great aspect of polenta is its ability to be flavored. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances the taste but also contributes to a slightly firmer texture when cooled. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute that will provide a similar umami flavor without the cheese.

Roasting the Vegetables

Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. The high temperature of 400°F (200°C) caramelizes the outside while keeping the insides tender. To ensure even roasting, make sure the vegetables are cut to similar sizes and spread out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will result in steaming instead of roasting, so use a large sheet if necessary. Watch for the vegetables to turn golden brown, which signifies they are ready to come out of the oven.

You can vary the vegetables based on what you have available. For instance, adding sliced mushrooms gives a lovely earthiness, while spinach or kale can introduce a fresh green note. Make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; denser vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes may need additional time, while delicate greens require less.

Perfecting the Assembly

Cutting the polenta into squares for baking is a delicate step. A sharp knife greased with a bit of olive oil will prevent sticking. When placing the polenta squares on the baking sheet, arrange them with space in between to allow for air circulation, ensuring a crispy edge. Returning the polenta to the oven will further enhance the crunch, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. They should puff slightly and become golden around the edges for the best texture.

These squares can be served in various ways. For a heartier meal, consider topping them with a fresh salsa or a dollop of crème fraîche right before serving. They are also excellent served alongside a crisp green salad or as a component in a charcuterie board. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.

Ingredients

For the Polenta

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Veggies

1 bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Polenta

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the polenta slowly while constantly stirring. Lower the heat, and cook for about 15 minutes until thickened. Stir in salt, pepper, and Parmesan if using. Spread the polenta into a greased baking dish and let it cool completely.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes or until tender and slightly browned.

Assemble and Bake

Once the polenta is set, cut it into squares. Place the squares on the same baking sheet as the roasted vegetables. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until the polenta is crispy around the edges.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares!

Let the squares cool for a minute before serving, to help them hold their shape.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand. Adding spices like paprika or garlic powder can enhance the flavor. Serve with a dipping sauce for extra zest!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore the crispy texture lost during storage. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them chewy instead of crispy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled, uncooked squares. Just lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares are endlessly versatile. Besides serving them as an appetizer or side dish, try using them as a base for your favorite protein. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas make excellent toppings that can transform the squares into a complete meal, allowing you to create a unique dish every time.

For a fun twist, consider creating a polenta veggie stack. Layer the squares with sliced avocado, mixed greens, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This not only adds flavor but creates an appealing presentation. Whether at a party or a family dinner, these squares will impress your guests and make them ask for the recipe!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make polenta squares in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the polenta and roast the vegetables a day in advance. Just reheat them together in the oven for best results.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can top the polenta squares with cheese, pesto, or even a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free, making these squares suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.