Butterfly-Shaped Polenta

  • recipe photo
  • A fun butterfly shape turns this creamy comfort food into a creative lunch for kids. Experiment with various toppings, from tomato sauce to tzitzski.

Kids will love the rich taste of this easy-to-make polenta. It's perfect to pack in their lunchbox – or to make as a quick weekday dinner.

Ingredients

  • 7 cups water
  • 1 13 oz. box instant polenta
  • 3/4 cup parmesan or grana padano
  • 3 tbsp. butter, plus more for sautéing (you can use olive oil as a healthier alternative)

Directions

  • Line a sheet tray with foil and coat with cooking spray.

  • Bring 7 cups of water to boil.

  • Add polenta, stirring continuously.

  • Turn heat to low and continue to stir with a wooden spoon until polenta thickens; about 5-8 minutes.

  • Turn the heat off and add parmesan and butter. Stir to combine.

  • Pour onto a sheet tray and spread evenly. Let cool.

  • Refrigerate the polenta for 30 minutes (or covered for up to 2 days).

  • Use cookie cutters to stamp out shapes.

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the polenta shapes for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden.

Adapted from Weelicious.