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Treat yourself to these Crispy Polenta Fries, infused with fresh rosemary and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Served with a zesty marinara dipping sauce, these fries offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional potato fries. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or side dish, they deliver a delightful crunch and a burst of savory goodness that will elevate any meal.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Fries:

  • 1 cup polenta cornmeal
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Marinara Dipping Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • Fresh basil chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Polenta: In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt.
  • Gradually whisk in the polenta, reducing the heat to low. Cook, stirring constantly, until the polenta thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped rosemary, butter, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
  • Set the Polenta: Pour the polenta into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  • Let the polenta cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
  • Cut and Bake the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Once the polenta is firm, cut it into fry-shaped strips.
  • Place the polenta fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with olive oil and season with freshly ground black pepper.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
  • Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
  • Serve: Once the fries are baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve the rosemary and Parmesan polenta fries hot with the marinara dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Enjoy these delicious Rosemary and Parmesan Polenta Fries, a perfect appetizer or side dish that’s sure to impress your guests!
Keyword homemade fries, parmesan fries, recipes with rosemary, rosemary fries, rosemary recipe ideas, rosemary recipes