# What You'll Need:
→ Polenta Base
01 - 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium or coarse ground)
02 - 4 cups water or half water and half milk
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
→ Suggested Toppings
06 - 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
07 - 1 cup roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
08 - 4 fried or poached eggs (optional)
09 - 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara
10 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or chives)
12 - Olive oil for drizzling
13 - Salt and pepper to taste
# Directions:
01 - Bring water or water and milk mixture with salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
02 - Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, reduce heat to medium-low, and stir frequently until thickened and tender, approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
03 - Stir in butter or olive oil and Parmesan cheese if using; adjust seasoning as needed.
04 - While polenta cooks, sauté mushrooms, roast vegetables, fry or poach eggs, and warm tomato sauce as desired.
05 - Divide polenta evenly into four bowls, arrange toppings on top, garnish with fresh herbs, drizzle with olive oil, and add extra cheese or sauce if preferred.
06 - Serve immediately while the polenta remains warm and creamy.