POLENTA CAKES WITH FRESH SALSA

Polenta Cakes with Fresh Salsa image

These polenta cakes are the perfect way to switch up your summer menu. -Jacque O'Connor, Chicago, Illinois

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Appetizers

Time 50m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 16

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Ingredients

3 cups boiling water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
SALSA:
6 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
8 fresh asparagus spears, grilled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
4 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro
1 serrano pepper, seeded and chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Quesco fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, optional

Steps:

In a large heavy saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle boil; slowly whisk in cornmeal. Stir in serrano pepper, garlic and pepper. Cook and stir with a wooden spoon for 12-17 minutes or until polenta is thickened and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the pan. Stir in cheese., Spread into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Cool slightly; cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours., For salsa, in a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, asparagus, green onions, cilantro, serrano pepper, salt and pepper; set aside., Cut polenta into eight pieces. Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, lightly coat the grill rack. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Serve with salsa; garnish with cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 106 calories, Fat 3g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 6mg cholesterol, Sodium 339mg sodium, Carbohydrate 17g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 4g protein.