MMMMM----- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.06 Title: Baked Polenta With Red Beans And Fresh Tomato Salsa Categories: Polenta Yield: 4 Servings 3 1/2 c Water 1 ts Salt; plus more for - seasoning 1 c Medium-ground yellow corn - meal 2 tb Fresh cilantro; minced 3 tb Olive oil Black pepper; freshly ground 4 Scallions; chopped 1 1/2 c Cooked dark red kidney - beans -OR- 15 oz Can beans; rinsed; drained 1 c Fresh tomato salsa The polenta may be made a few days ahead and refrigerated until needed. Then simply cut it into serving-sized portions and finish in the oven. If you prefer, you may pan-fry the polenta in a little olive oil instead of baking it. Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium, add salt, and slowly whisk in the corn meal, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until thick, 30 to 40 minutes. Stir in 1 tb cilantro and 1 tb olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Lightly oil a shallow 10" square baking dish. Spoon the polenta into the dish and spread it evenly over the bottom. Set aside to cool to room temperature for a few minutes, then cover and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes. Heat 1 tb olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the scallions and cook until slightly softened, about 1 minute. Stir in the beans, the remaining 1 tb cilantro, and the salsa. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer until the mixture is hot and the flavors are blended, about 5 minutes. Keep warm over very low heat. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a baking sheet. Cut the polenta into 4 squares and place on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining 1 tb olive oil and bake until hot and golden brown, about 20 minutes. To serve, transfer the polenta to individual plates, spoon some of the warm beans and salsa on top, and serve hot. Recipe by Vegan Planet by Robin Robertson MMMMM