Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup chopped zucchini; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow); 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Meals

I love making Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares because they are a delightful twist on traditional polenta, packed with vibrant veggies and an irresistible crunch. The blend of flavors and textures makes these squares a perfect appetizer or a side dish for any meal. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. In just a short time, you can create a colorful and tasty dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:13:35.232Z

When I first discovered how to make Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares, I was amazed by the versatility of polenta. I experimented with various vegetable combinations until I found the perfect mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. The key to the perfect texture is letting the polenta cool before cutting it into squares, which ensures they hold their shape while baking.

Serving these squares with a homemade tomato sauce added a wonderful tangy contrast that really brought the dish together. Don’t skip the sprinkle of fresh herbs on top; they elevate the flavor profile and make the dish look gorgeous on your table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful center
Packed with nutritious vegetables for a wholesome bite
Versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a side

Perfecting Your Polenta

The key to achieving the perfect polenta texture lies in the cooking process. When whisking the polenta into boiling vegetable broth, it’s essential to do so gradually to prevent lumps. This not only ensures a smoother consistency but also helps in achieving a creamy center once baked. I recommend using a whisk for this step to effectively incorporate the polenta into the liquid without clumps.

Monitor the heat closely while cooking the polenta. It should be reduced to medium-low after adding the polenta to allow it to thicken properly. Stir continuously for about five minutes until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pot. Cooking it a bit longer will enhance its flavors and help in developing a more cohesive texture, which is critical for that ideal bite.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The versatility of this recipe means you can easily swap or add vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. Zucchini and bell peppers are great for color and flavor, but consider adding diced tomatoes or roasted eggplant for added richness. If you're looking to add some spice, jalapeños or red pepper flakes can provide a delightful kick to the mixture.

Fresh spinach not only adds nutrients but also a lovely green hue. When incorporating spinach, be sure to chop it finely so it disperses evenly throughout the polenta. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can substitute it with frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture, ensuring your squares don’t become soggy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup chopped zucchini
1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients well before pouring them into a baking dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce the heat. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped veggies, cheese, salt, and pepper.

Set and Cut

Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes to set. Once set, cut into squares.

Bake the Squares

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the squares on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or simply sprinkle with herbs.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the polenta mixture.

Storing and Reheating

Crispy Polenta Veggie Squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. After baking, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. For the best texture when reheating, consider using an oven rather than a microwave, which can make them soggy. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

If you want to freeze the squares, slice and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method ensures they don't stick together. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions

These squares are delightful on their own, but I love serving them with a tangy dipping sauce to elevate the flavors. A simple mix of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the polenta. Alternatively, a salsa verde or spicy tomato sauce pairs wonderfully, offering both flavor and visual appeal.

For a more substantial meal, serve the crispy squares over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette. You can also top them with shredded chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, making your dish more satisfying and filling. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these polenta squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the polenta mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to experiment with any veggies you like! Mushrooms, carrots, or even kale work well.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Polenta is naturally gluten-free, so just ensure your vegetable broth doesn't contain gluten.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for best results.