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Grilled Polenta Sticks

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These grilled polenta sticks are a versatile vegetarian dish that works beautifully as a gluten-free alternative to traditional chips or as a sophisticated side for roasted vegetables. By slowly cooking the cornmeal until thick and creamy before chilling, you create a firm base that develops a wonderful texture when finished under the grill. The addition of salty Parmigiano-Reggiano provides a savoury crust that complements the mild, earthy flavour of the corn.

Perfect for sharing, these homemade sticks are easy to prepare in advance and finish just before serving. They make a fantastic addition to a Mediterranean-style feast or can be enjoyed as a simple snack dipped into a rich tomato sauce or a cooling garlicky dip. High in slow-release carbohydrates, they are a satisfying and comforting option for those seeking a wholesome, wheat-free accompaniment to their favourite meals.

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Ingredients for Grilled Polenta Sticks

  • 1550ml cold water

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 475ml yellow cornmeal (not stone-ground)

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil plus additional for brushing

  • 15g finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (80ml )

How to make Grilled Polenta Sticks

Brush a 13- by 9-inch baking pan with water.

Combine 1550ml cold water with salt and cornmeal in a 5-quart heavy pot and bring to a boil over moderate heat, whisking. Reduce heat to moderately low and cook, stirring constantly with a long-handled wooden spoon, until polenta begins to pull away from side of pot, 20 to 25 minutes. Pour polenta into baking pan, spreading evenly with a dampened heatproof rubber spatula. Cool in pan on a rack until polenta is lukewarm and set, about 20 minutes.

Brush a baking sheet with olive oil and invert baking pan with polenta onto sheet to unmold.

Preheat grill.

Brush polenta with 2 teaspoons oil and sprinkle with cheese. Grill about 4 inches from heat until pale golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Cool 5 minutes, then cut into 3- by 1 1/2-inch sticks.

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.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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