Slow cooker ricotta-spinach polenta with fresh tomato salad

Ingredients for Slow cooker ricotta-spinach polenta with tomato salad

• 180 g polenta (not instant or quick-cooking)

• 30 g unsalted butter, cut into bits

• kosher salt

• 140 g baby spinach (about 140 g loosely packed)

• 480 ml cherry tomatoes, halved

• 10 ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the eggs

• 10 ml balsamic vinegar

• freshly ground black pepper

• 4 large eggs (optional)

• 120 g grated parmesan

• 240 ml full-fat milk ricotta

• 5–7 litre slow cooker

How to make Slow cooker ricotta-spinach polenta with tomato salad

1. Combine the polenta with 1.5 litres of water in a 5- to 7-litre slow cooker. Add the butter and 2 teaspoons of salt. Cover and cook on LOW for about 6 hours, or until the polenta is thick and tender.

2. Once the slow cooker is on LOW, stir the polenta well. Gradually stir in the spinach in two batches, covering the cooker between additions and allowing the first batch to wilt for about 5 minutes before adding the second.

3. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, toss together the tomatoes, oil, and vinegar. Season the tomato salad with salt and pepper to taste.

4. (Optional) Pour a thin layer of oil into a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Crack 4 eggs into the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the whites are golden brown and lacy around the edges, and just set in the middle, while the yolks remain slightly jiggly, about 3 minutes.

5. Fold the Parmesan and ricotta into the polenta. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary. If the polenta appears too thick for your preference, stir in warm water by the tablespoon, keeping in mind it will continue to thicken as it cools.

6. Serve the polenta topped with the tomato salad and, if desired, the fried eggs.

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.