Gusto TV Crispy Grilled Polenta Recipe

Crispy Grilled Polenta Recipe

This grilled polenta recipe transforms simple store-bought polenta into golden, lightly crispy rounds with a tender centre using olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Featured on License to Grill with host Rob Rainford, this easy Italian-inspired barbecue side dish delivers satisfying texture and comforting flavour, making it perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, and outdoor entertaining.

The Inspiration

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from ground cornmeal, celebrated for its comforting texture, mild flavour, and versatility. Originally associated with the rustic cooking traditions of northern Italy, polenta has become a popular ingredient in kitchens around the world because it can be prepared in many different ways, including boiling, baking, frying, and grilling.

On License to Grill, host Rob Rainford explores the versatility of barbecue cooking through recipes that highlight fresh ingredients, practical techniques, and satisfying flavours. While grilled meats and seafood often take centre stage, simple side dishes such as grilled polenta demonstrate how the barbecue can transform everyday ingredients into delicious accompaniments.

Whether you’re preparing a casual backyard barbecue, planning a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, or looking for a convenient alternative to grilled potatoes, this crispy grilled polenta recipe offers a delicious combination of simplicity, texture, and comforting flavour.

Ingredients

1 tube of store bought Polenta
¼ cup of Olive Oil ( 62ml)
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Preheat Grill to medium high heat
Slice polenta tube into 1 inch thick rounds. Drizzle with olive oil on both sides. Season with salt and pepper.
Oil the grill with vegetable oil to help avoid any sticking.
Place the polenta rounds directly on the grill twisting after 1 minute to create hatch marks.
Grill for about 2 ½ minutes per side until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

For a classic backyard barbecue, serve the grilled polenta alongside juicy steaks, grilled chicken breasts, pork chops, or herb-marinated lamb. The mild corn flavour provides a satisfying contrast to the rich, smoky taste of grilled meats. Pair the meal with roasted bell peppers, grilled asparagus, or a fresh tomato and basil salad for a colourful combination of flavours and textures.

For an Italian-inspired vegetarian meal, serve the polenta with grilled zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, or sweet bell peppers. These vegetables complement the natural sweetness of cornmeal while introducing smoky and savoury flavours. The polenta can also be accompanied by a rich tomato sauce, sautéed mushrooms, or a roasted vegetable mixture for a satisfying meat-free dinner.

For a more elegant dinner, use the grilled polenta rounds as a base for savoury toppings such as roasted mushrooms, tomato ragù, or grilled vegetables. Their firm texture allows them to support a variety of ingredients while maintaining their shape. This presentation makes them suitable for appetizers, side dishes, or smaller plated courses.

Whether served alongside grilled meat, paired with seafood, or enjoyed with fresh Mediterranean-inspired vegetables, this crispy grilled polenta recipe brings comforting flavour and satisfying texture to the table.

Final Thoughts

This grilled polenta recipe is a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying barbecue side dish. Combining ready-made polenta with quality olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper produces golden rounds with lightly crisp edges and a tender, comforting centre.

Featured on License to Grill with Rob Rainford, this recipe highlights the versatility of outdoor cooking by transforming a traditional Italian staple into a flavourful grilled favourite. The medium-high heat develops attractive grill marks and a golden exterior, while the short cooking time keeps the preparation quick and convenient.

Find more recipes from License to Grill here!