In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often need a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enter the Caprese polenta stacks, a delightful twist on two Italian classics, made with pre-made polenta that comes in a convenient tube. This appetizer is quick and easy to prepare and delivers all the vibrant flavors you crave. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s perfect for when you need something fresh and satisfying in a hurry.
Caprese Salad
The Caprese salad is a simple yet iconic dish that originated on the island of Capri in the Campania region of Italy. It features the colors of the Italian flag with its red tomatoes, white mozzarella cheese, and green basil leaves. Because of its Italian origins and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, the Caprese salad has become a symbol of Italy’s culinary excellence and the Mediterranean diet. I use a homemade cashew-based mozzarella for my Caprese polenta stacks (recipe to come), but you can also use storebought. I recommend Miyoko’s.
Polenta
Polenta, a versatile and beloved staple in Italian cuisine, has its origins tracing back to ancient times with roots in Northern Italy, where it gained prominence. Initially, people used various grains to make it, and the introduction of maize (corn) from the Americas boosted its popularity. Polenta thrived in regions like Lombardy, Veneto, and Piedmont, becoming a dietary staple among peasants and the working class due to its affordability and filling nature. Today, it remains a cherished dish in Italian culinary heritage, enjoyed worldwide in various forms, from soft and creamy to firm and sliceable like in our caprese polenta stacks. Polenta has adapted to regional variations and modern interpretations while maintaining its historical significance and versatility.
In conclusion, these caprese polenta stacks bring together the timeless flavors of the classic Italian Caprese salad with the heartiness of polenta, offering a quick and satisfying appetizer or snack. With its vibrant colors and harmonious taste, it’s the perfect solution for those moments when you crave something delicious and need it in a hurry. The Caprese salad’s fresh and flavorful combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, combined with the versatility of polenta, results in a dish that’s both convenient and full of Italian culinary heritage. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and delightful treat, give this recipe a try – it won’t disappoint!
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Caprese Polenta Stacks
Course: Appetizers, SnacksCuisine: Italian InspiredDifficulty: Easy4
servings4
minutes20
minutesIn the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often need a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enter the Caprese polenta stacks, a delightful twist on two Italian classics, made with pre-made polenta that comes in a convenient tube. This appetizer is quick and easy to prepare and delivers all the vibrant flavors you crave.
Ingredients
2 medium-sized tomatoes
1-2 plant-based mozzarella balls
2 tbsp of balsamic reduction
About 10 basil leaves
1/4 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Garlic Powder (optional)
Directions
- Heat a grill or pan over medium heat. Meanwhile, remove the polenta from the tube and slice it into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Brush one side of the polenta rounds with olive oil and optionally season with salt and garlic powder.
- Transfer the polenta to the grill or pan, oil side down. Brush the tops with olive oil and season if desired. Grill each side for about 7-9 minutes or until you see some color.
- While the polenta is warm, layer 1/2-inch rounds of tomato and mozzarella and one leaf of basil per stack.
- Season the stacks with salt and pepper. Finally, drizzle olive oil and balsamic reduction over them. Enjoy!
Notes
- Using mozzarella and tomatoes the same size as the polenta will create nice unison in your stacks.
- If your polenta sticks to your grill or pan you are probably flipping it too soon.
