Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts

Name: Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups water; 1 tsp salt; 3 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts on a cozy evening. The rich, creamy polenta paired with the sharpness of Gorgonzola creates a delightful contrast that I can't resist. Adding crunchy walnuts to the dish elevates the texture and rounds off the flavors beautifully. It's a comforting, satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Whether I’m having friends over or simply treating myself, this recipe is my go-to indulgence, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up in about 30 minutes.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:21:34.550Z

When I first tried making polenta, I didn't realize how simple yet delicious it could be. By mixing the polenta into boiling water slowly, I achieved a smooth and creamy texture that's essential for this dish. The Gorgonzola adds a beautiful depth of flavor, making it hearty enough for a main course.

Another great tip I discovered is to lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the dish. This small step enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy polenta perfectly. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy polenta that’s incredibly comforting and satisfying
Bold Gorgonzola flavor that harmonizes perfectly with walnuts
Quick preparation time makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner

      

The Art of Polenta

Polenta is a versatile staple that serves as a blank canvas in the kitchen. When preparing polenta, the ratio of water to polenta is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency. For this recipe, using 4 cups of water for each cup of polenta ensures that you get a smooth texture. Stirring constantly during cooking not only prevents lumps but also helps release the starches, resulting in that coveted creamy finish. Don't hesitate to adjust the cooking time a bit; the polenta should thicken and pull away from the sides of the pot as it cooks.

A common misconception is that polenta is difficult to make; however, with a good whisk and a watchful eye, anyone can master it. If you're aiming for a more artisanal version, you might consider opting for stone-ground polenta, which adds a lovely texture and a deeper corn flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on your mixture as it tends to take a little longer to cook through.

Exploring Gorgonzola’s Flavor

Gorgonzola cheese plays a pivotal role in this dish—not only does it add creaminess, but its sharp flavor beautifully balances the nuttiness of the walnuts. When choosing Gorgonzola, you can opt for either the milder dolce or the stronger piccante version, depending on your taste preference. If you find Gorgonzola too strong, consider using a combination of Gorgonzola and a milder cheese like cream cheese or ricotta for a subtler experience.

If you ever want to experiment with flavors, substituting Gorgonzola with another blue cheese can also yield delightful results. Roquefort or Stilton can be great alternatives, each bringing unique characteristics to the dish. Just be sure to crumble it finely, so it melts into the polenta seamlessly, enhancing every bite with its creamy richness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Polenta with Gorgonzola and walnuts is delicious as a main dish, but it can also serve as a versatile side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. To elevate the dish further, you could add caramelized mushrooms or even roasted garlic, which adds a sweet, earthy note that complements the wealth of flavors in the polenta. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette makes a lovely accompaniment, balancing the richness of the dish.

If you have leftovers, don’t discard them! Polenta can be cooled and set in a dish, then cut into squares for frying or grilling the following day. This method yields a crispy exterior and a soft interior, providing a delightful textural contrast that can be topped again with Gorgonzola, or even your favorite marinara sauce for an entirely different twist.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts:

Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups water
1 tsp salt
3 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts:

Prepare the Polenta

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt and gradually whisk in the polenta. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

Add Gorgonzola and Walnuts

Once the polenta is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and well combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Serve and Garnish

Drizzle the olive oil on top of the polenta before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Enjoy your Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or milk when mixing in the cheese. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination.

Expert Tips for Perfect Polenta

To prevent clumping when making polenta, add the cornmeal gradually while whisking vigorously, ensuring that it disperses evenly in the boiling water. This technique is essential for achieving that silky, smooth texture without lumps. If you do happen to find some lumps despite your best efforts, a quick blitz with an immersion blender can remedy the situation beautifully.

While constant stirring is recommended, I often find that lowering the heat to medium-low can help control splattering while still allowing the polenta to cook properly. Watch for the moment when it begins to bubble softly, signaling it's time to stir more frequently; the polenta will thicken quite quickly at this stage.

Make-Ahead Tips

Polenta can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Once cooked, simply transfer it to a container and let it cool before sealing. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, stirring frequently for an even consistency.

If you're planning a gathering, consider preparing the polenta in advance and then finishing the dish right before serving. The addition of Gorgonzola and walnuts can be done just before plating; this allows you to enjoy the creamy cheese's flavor at its best and keeps the walnuts crunchy.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free option, polenta is inherently gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten intolerance. However, when selecting your Gorgonzola, be sure to check that it hasn't been processed with gluten-containing ingredients, ensuring the dish remains safe for consumption.

If you're looking to reduce the richness of the dish, I suggest swapping out half of the Gorgonzola with a creamy, lower-fat cheese like cottage cheese or blending with yogurt. This will still provide a creamy texture while lightening the overall dish, making it suitable for a wider audience without sacrificing flavor too much.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this polenta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the polenta ahead of time. Reheat it gently, adding a bit of water or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

→ What can I substitute for Gorgonzola?

If you don't have Gorgonzola, you can substitute it with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.

→ Are there any variations I can try?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. For a little heat, try adding chili flakes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.