Polenta is akin to a lovely, lemon-hued canvas that comes alive when you add colors and textures. Green and red vegetables accentuate its soft, sunny blush, and butter and cream lend silkiness. Sautéing, grilling, baking and frying all bring out the rich corn flavor of the milled grain.

Similar to pasta, polenta pairs well with all types of flavors from delicate cheeses and cream to piquant spices and herbs, bold peppers and umami. Your most-loved ingredients will complement polenta without overpowering its unique taste.

How to make southwest black bean polenta
Many forms of corn, from whole kernels to tortillas, star in Mexican-inspired dishes, so polenta is an ideal, satisfying casserole ingredient here. Mild green chiles, protein-rich black beans, hints of cumin, cayenne and chili powder, and a cheesy topping make this casserole a winner. And if you're counting carbs, polenta has fewer than pasta, leaving you some leeway to indulge a little. Get the recipe here.

How to make stacked polenta and mushroom casserole
For a quick, satisfying casserole that's big on flavor, put this on your supper menu. Premade polenta formed into a log is easy to cut into slices and keeps its shape during baking. Spiced with a touch of fresh thyme, layered with tons of mushrooms and two kinds of Italian cheese, and topped with rich bechamel sauce, this dish will make many encore appearances. Get the recipe here.

How to make ricotta goat cheese polenta bake
Ricotta and goat cheese top this luscious dish, accenting a decadent mixture of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions spread over a layer of butter-infused polenta. Reserve this recipe for a night when you have lots of time to create a masterpiece that's well worth the investment. Get the recipe here.

How to make baked layered polenta casserole
Lasagna is often a family favorite, so this copycat polenta version is sure to please. Sliced, premade polenta substitutes for the pasta. All the rest of the flavors lasagna brings to the table are there, including Italian herbs, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, ample red sauce, and just the right amounts of garlic and onions. Make it ahead of time and freeze it for nights when you need a night off from kitchen duty. Get the recipe here.

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