Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green); 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making these Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares because they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The combination of creamy polenta with a variety of veggies is a great way to add color and nutrients to any meal. I often serve them as a snack or as an appetizer for gatherings, and they never fail to impress my friends and family. Plus, they can be whipped up in less than an hour, making them a perfect choice for weeknight meals or last-minute invitations!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:17:34.490Z

When we first decided to create Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares, it was a little trial and error to get the texture just right. I experimented with different ratios of polenta to vegetables, and I found that a generous helping of diced bell peppers and zucchini added just the right amount of flavor and color. The key, I found, is allowing the squares to cool before cutting them, which helps them hold their shape during cooking.

These squares are perfect for customizing based on what veggies you have on hand. I particularly enjoy adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile. Pair them with a delicious dipping sauce, such as a homemade pesto or marinara, and you have an irresistible snack or appetizer that everyone will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior with a tender inside that's extraordinarily satisfying
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs
Perfect as a party appetizer or a delightful snack

Perfecting Your Polenta

Achieving the perfect consistency for your polenta is essential for making these squares successful. It's important to whisk continuously while adding the polenta to the boiling broth, which helps prevent lumps. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the brand of polenta, so check the package instructions, but generally, you're looking for a creamy texture that holds together without becoming too thick or dry. The addition of grated Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the creamy mouthfeel.

After cooking, ensure you've seasoned your polenta adequately with salt and pepper. Since polenta is quite bland on its own, balancing the seasoning here will create a more flavorful base. You can taste the mixture before adding in the vegetables, making adjustments if necessary. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating additional herbs like thyme or rosemary at this stage.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of these Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares lies in their customizability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, roasted corn, sautéed mushrooms, or even finely chopped spinach can work wonderfully. Just be aware that some veggies may carry more moisture than others, like zucchini. If you choose high-moisture ingredients, pat them dry before folding them into the polenta mixture to maintain the desired crispiness after frying.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutrient profile. For spring, consider adding asparagus or peas; in the fall, diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes make great choices. Just ensure the vegetables are cut uniformly so they cook evenly within the polenta without disrupting the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These polenta squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They can be paired with an array of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a zesty yogurt sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of pesto can elevate the dish further. They also make for a sophisticated appetizer when topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese.

If you have leftovers, storing them is a breeze! Simply let the cooked squares cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil to regain that crispy texture. You can also freeze the squares after frying; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a hot skillet until heated through and crispy again.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Polenta Squares

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1 cup diced zucchini
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to customize the flavor of these squares!

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta

In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix in the Vegetables

Fold in the diced bell peppers and zucchini into the polenta mixture until evenly distributed.

Set and Chill

Spread the polenta mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top. Let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cut and Fry

Once set, cut the polenta into squares. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the polenta squares until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve and Enjoy

Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

These squares can also be baked for a healthier alternative.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using different types of cheese or incorporating spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning into the polenta.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your polenta squares aren’t crispy enough after frying, it could be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. Make sure to pat down any watery veggies before incorporating them. Additionally, ensure your oil temperature is hot enough. If it's too cool, the polenta will absorb excess oil rather than forming a crispy exterior. A good rule of thumb is to heat the oil until it shimmers, usually around 350°F (175°C). Test a small piece of polenta first to check the oil's readiness before adding the rest.

In case your polenta mixture is too thick or won't spread easily, try adding a touch more broth to loosen it up. If it’s too runny, let it cook a little longer on the stove while stirring to help thicken up before pouring it into your baking dish. Remember, it should have a pourable consistency that can still hold form once cooled.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a few. If you're doubling the batch, it’s best to prepare the polenta in batches to ensure an even cook. Keep an eye on the cooking times and add a little more broth if necessary to maintain the desired texture. For smaller quantities, you can simply divide the ingredients to preserve the balance of flavors.

If you're making more than what you need, consider freezing half of the batch for a quick meal later. This allows you to enjoy these delicious squares anytime without having to put in the extra effort. Just be sure to reheat them properly to keep that delightful crunch intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the polenta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the polenta in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before cutting.

→ What can I serve with Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares?

These squares pair wonderfully with marinara, pesto, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover polenta squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to regain their crispiness.

→ Can I freeze the polenta squares?

Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Just let them cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.