Puttanesca Polenta Bake: A Flavorful Italian Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, look no further than the Puttanesca Polenta Bake. This Italian-inspired recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of a classic puttanesca sauce with creamy polenta, creating a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious bake!

What is Puttanesca Sauce?

Puttanesca sauce is a traditional Italian sauce that originated in Naples. It’s known for its bold flavors, typically featuring ingredients like tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. The name “puttanesca” is often translated to “in the style of the whore,” which is said to refer to the quick and easy nature of the dish, allowing busy women to prepare a meal in no time. The combination of salty, savory, and slightly spicy elements makes it a perfect match for creamy polenta.

Ingredients

For the Puttanesca Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced (Kalamata or Gaeta work well)
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 4 anchovy fillets, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

For the Polenta:

• 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional)

For Assembly:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puttanesca Sauce

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Incorporate the Other Ingredients: Add the sliced olives, capers, chopped anchovies (if using), and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Polenta

1. Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Add the Polenta: Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir for about 20-30 minutes, or until the polenta is thick and creamy. If using, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked polenta evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the puttanesca sauce over the polenta, then add the remaining polenta on top. Finish with the rest of the puttanesca sauce.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoying Your Puttanesca Polenta Bake

This Puttanesca Polenta Bake is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal. The combination of creamy polenta and robust puttanesca sauce creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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