### How to Make Baked Polenta with Fresh Tomatoes and Parmesan
Baked polenta is a comforting dish that's easy to make but packed with flavor. This recipe combines creamy polenta with fresh tomatoes and melted parmesan cheese, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for any season.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow polenta
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan for garnish
#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Polenta
1. **Heat the Water**: In a large saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil over medium heat.
2. **Add Polenta**: Gradually stir in polenta while continuously stirring with a wooden spoon or polenta whisk to prevent lumps from forming.
3. **Cook the Polenta**: Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until polenta is thick and creamy. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
##### Step 2: Season and Serve
1. **Seasoning**: Once cooked, remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
2. **Preheat the Oven**: While the polenta cools slightly, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
3. **Layer the Dish**: In a baking dish, spread half of the polenta evenly. Top it with sliced tomatoes and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the tomatoes.
4. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
##### Step 3: Final Touches
1. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then serve immediately.
2. **Optional Toppings**: For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle a little more grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
#### Tips for Success:
- Use yellow polenta as it’s easier to cook and has a more delicate taste compared to white or cornmeal polenta.
- Keep stirring the polenta constantly while cooking to avoid lumps. A polenta whisk is ideal but a wooden spoon will do in a pinch.
- Adjust the baking time if your oven tends to run hot, checking for doneness by ensuring the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.