Low Sodium Cheddar Polenta

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Low Sodium Cheddar Polenta is a flavor-packed side dish that doesn’t compromise on health. Made with smooth yellow cornmeal simmered in low-sodium vegetable broth, it’s infused with aromatic garlic and finished with sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of unsalted butter for a velvety finish. Perfect for those seeking a heart-healthy option, it’s seasoned simply with freshly ground black pepper and can be garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it straight from the pot for a luscious, creamy consistency, or let it set for a sliceable, firm texture. With just 10 minutes of prep and wholesome ingredients, this polenta pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, or as a comforting stand-alone dish that’s sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Yellow cornmeal
• 3 cups Low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup Water
• 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the low-sodium vegetable broth and water to a gentle boil.

Step 2

Whisk in the cornmeal slowly to prevent any lumps from forming.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low, allowing the mixture to simmer gently. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon to keep the mixture smooth and to prevent sticking, about 20 minutes, or until the polenta is thick and creamy.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse its flavor into the polenta.

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and unsalted butter; stir until both are fully melted and well incorporated.

Step 6

Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 7

Transfer the polenta to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Step 8

Serve immediately for a creamy texture, or allow to cool slightly for a firmer consistency that can be sliced.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1264.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1257.2

Total Fat 65.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 38.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 182mg	0%
Sodium 1166.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 134.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.5g	0%
Total Sugars 4.1g
Protein 39.7g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 884.4mg	0%
Iron 6.2mg	0%
Potassium 1040.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.9%

Protein: 12.3%

Carbs: 41.8%