Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken stock (using water makes this a vegetarian dish)
• 1 cup coarsely-ground cornmeal (, finely ground won't work as well)
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 sweet red pepper, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Over medium heat in a large pot, bring stock to a boil (use water to make this a vegetarian dish).

2. Very slowly, whisk in cornmeal.

3. Lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes, whisking very frequently; polenta will be thick.

4. Season well with salt and pepper and, with a wooden spoon, beat in the cheese.

5. Oil an 8-inch baking dish and pour polenta in; smooth top and set aside to cool.

6. Preheat oven to 400F degrees.

7. Cut polenta into squares and place on an oiled baking sheet.

8. Bake for 15 minutes or until polenta squares are slightly browned.

9. Meanwhile, bring a small pot of water to boil and add beans.

10. Cook for 2 minute; drain; rinse under cold water and set aside.

11. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil; when hot, add garlic, red pepper and the beans.

12. Saute until peppers have softened and garlic is golden, about 5 minutes.

13. Season veggies with salt and pepper.

14. Place polenta squares on a serving platter and top with veggies; serve immediately.