Beans and greens polenta bake for a hearty meal

Ingredients for Beans and greens polenta bake

• 360 g polenta, still-warm

• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 400 g can white beans, rinsed

• 1 ml crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 bunch curly kale or Tuscan kale or escarole, tough ribs and stems removed, leaves torn into bite-size pieces

• 15 ml white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar

• 1 ml kosher salt

• 25 g finely grated Parmesan, plus more for topping

How to make Beans and greens polenta bake

1. Pour warm polenta into a large ovenproof frying pan, or a ceramic or metal baking dish, and spread it into an even layer, ideally about 2.5 cm thick. Let it cool, then cover and chill for at least 1 hour or up to 1 week.

2. Preheat the oven to 260°C (fan 240°C).

3. Heat garlic and 60 ml of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and starting to brown, about 3 minutes.

4. Add the beans and red pepper flakes (if using). Working in batches, add the kale, allowing it to wilt slightly after each addition before adding more. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale is tender and evenly darkened in colour, about 3 minutes.

5. Stir in the vinegar and salt, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates, about 2 minutes.

6. Remove from heat and stir in 60 g of Parmesan.

7. Scrape the kale mixture over the prepared polenta and spread it into an even layer. Drizzle with a little more oil and sprinkle with additional Parmesan.

8. Transfer the frying pan to the oven and bake until the polenta is warmed through and the topping is lightly crisped and browned, 8–10 minutes.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.