Polenta with Peppers and Cheese
Southwestern flavors add flare to this easy favorite.
Ingredients
4 cups water
1½ cups cornmeal, or polenta uncooked
1 11-ounce can whole-kernel corn mixed with green and red peppers, drained
1 7-ounce can green chiles
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp margarine or butter
6 ounces cheddar cheese, reduced fat, shredded
1 15-ounce can rinsed black or pinto beans
Cilantro sprigs, for garnish
1 red bell pepper, cut into rings, for garnish
Directions
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually add the cornmeal or polenta. Reduce heat to low.
Continue stirring; add the corn, chiles, and salt. Cook 6 to 8 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
Gently stir in the margarine, cheese, and beans.
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with red bell pepper rings and cilantro.
Makes 8 servings
Each 1-cup serving provides about 240 calories, 5 g total fat, 5 mg cholesterol, 580 mg sodium, 37 g carbohydrate, 7 g dietary fiber, 5 g sugars, 11 g protein.