Best 2 Grilled Polenta Bites With Black Bean Salsa Recipes

**Grilled Polenta Bites with Black Bean Salsa: A Delightful Appetizer**

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of grilled polenta bites topped with a refreshing black bean salsa. This delectable appetizer combines the creamy texture of polenta with the vibrant flavors of fresh black beans, juicy tomatoes, and zesty cilantro. Perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also gluten-free and easily customizable to suit your dietary needs. Alongside the main recipe, this article also offers variations for those seeking a vegan or spicy version of the dish.

Get ready to impress your guests with these easy-to-make polenta bites. Simply grill polenta slices until they have beautiful grill marks and a slightly crispy exterior, then top them with a flavorful black bean salsa made with fresh ingredients. For a vegan alternative, substitute olive oil for butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you're craving a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili powder or diced jalapeños to the salsa.

Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or simply want to enjoy a delicious appetizer, these grilled polenta bites with black bean salsa are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let's embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

GRILLED POLENTA

Grilled Polenta image

Provided by Guy Fieri

Time 2h50m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

3 cups water
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 cups quick cooking polenta, medium or coarse-grain
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme leaves
1 teaspoon freshly chopped marjoram leaves
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for pan
3/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 cup olive oil, for grilling or pan searing

Steps:

In a medium saucepan, over medium-high heat, bring the water and the salt to just a boil. Reduce the heat, slowly whisk in the polenta and season with pepper. Continue to whisk until the mixture starts to tighten up, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the fresh chopped herbs, 2 tablespoons of the butter and the Parmesan. Continue to stir until well combined and very thick, taste for seasoning adjustment.
Liberally butter a 10-inch springform pan on the bottom and about 2-inches up the side. Pour in the hot polenta and with a rubber spatula, rubbed with butter, smooth out the top. Set aside to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to set. (This can also be done up to 1 day ahead.)
Preheat a grill to medium.
When ready to grill, or pan fry, remove the polenta from the pan and cut it into equal pie shapes or cut circles with a biscuit cutter. Lightly oil a grill, brush each side of the polenta with olive oil and grill or pan sear until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Arrange the polenta on a serving platter and serve hot.

GRILLED POLENTA CRACKERS WITH ROASTED PEPPER SALSA

Grilled Polenta Crackers with Roasted Pepper Salsa image

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Categories appetizer

Time 16m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 tube, 24 ounces, prepared polenta, plain or sun-dried tomato flavor, cut into 1/2-inch slices
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball it
3 roasted red peppers, drained well, 1 large jar, 16 ounces
1/2 cup calamata black olives, pitted
2 tablespoons capers
3/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, a couple of handfuls
1/2 white onion
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Steps:

Preheat grill pan to high.
Slice polenta and brush lightly with oil. Grill 2 or 3 minutes on each side to score the cakes and warm them.
Place peppers, olives, capers, parsley, onion, garlic and red pepper flakes in processor and pulse the power to chop salsa. Top polenta with spoonfuls of salsa and serve.

Tips:

To achieve the best flavor and texture, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices will make a big difference.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings and fillings. The possibilities are endless!
If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked polenta. Just be sure to heat it through before assembling the bites.
To make the polenta bites ahead of time, simply prepare them according to the recipe and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
These polenta bites are also a great way to use up leftover polenta. Simply form the polenta into balls and then proceed with the recipe.

Conclusion:

Grilled polenta bites with black bean salsa are a delicious and versatile appetizer or snack. They're easy to make and can be customized to your own taste preferences. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick and easy meal, these polenta bites are sure to be a hit!