Rustic Polenta Pizza isn’t your traditional pizza. It’s a unique twist that offers new flavors and textures by a crust out of the polenta itself!
Let’s play a word association game. If I say Italian, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? I think of rustic polenta pizza with herbs. 
I have a confession to make… I love polenta. It’s definitely one of my top five comfort foods. I’m not even picky about how it’s prepared. I love it “mushy”; I love it sliced; I love it on the bbq; I love the texture cornmeal provides in cookies and cakes; I love cornmeal bread; I just love polenta.
You can try topping this polenta pizza with cheese, tomato sauce, swiss chard, caramelized onions, roasted red peppers – anything you would top a regular pizza with, really! This basic recipe has endless possiblities.
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- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 cups water
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ cup coarse cornmeal
- 1½ cup fine cornmeal
- more olive oil for drizzling
- variety of fresh or dry herbs and spices (rosemary, thyme, chives, pepper,chili powder, etc…)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400° F. Position rack in the center.
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine both kinds of cornmeal. Set aside.
- Bring water to boil in a large pot.
- Add salt and olive oil.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Whisk in the polenta and stir for about 5-7 minutes or until thickened.(The water should be all absorbed).
- Spread on lined baking sheet to desired thickness.
- Drizzle with olive oil and top with your favourite herbs.
- Bake at 400° F for approximately 30 minutes.
- Lower heat to 375° F and continue to bake for another 20-30 minutes.
- Let cool and cut into pieces.
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Cuisine: Italian
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cheese works best for topping Rustic Polenta Pizza?
You can use a variety of cheeses, but mozzarella and parmesan are popular choices for their melting qualities and flavor.
Can I use instant polenta instead of traditional polenta for this recipe?
Yes, instant polenta can be used, but the texture may be slightly different; it typically cooks faster and results in a creamier base.
How can I add more flavor to the polenta crust?
Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the polenta while cooking, or mix in garlic powder for added depth.
