I was telling my mom about this recipe, and she was like polenta-what? It’s an ingredient that isn’t super widely known unless you’re Italian, but is becoming more popular. Polenta is a cornmeal based substitute for pasta, rice or potatoes. It’s got a mild corn flavor, and is much more palatable than grits. This recipe is one of the most fail-proof ways to ease yourself in to using polenta in your cooking. It’s a simple chop-toss-and-bake, but is super tasty. The sausage and apples make it perfect for autumn, too.