Polenta with Arugula

Ingredients

• 8 cups water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
• 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking polenta (pre-cooked maize meal)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups arugula, coarsely chopped
• 1 stick butter
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, optional

Directions

Combine the water and salt in a heavy large saucepan. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Gradually whisk in the polenta. Decrease the heat to medium-low. Stir constantly until polenta thickens, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and arugula, and stir until the arugula is wilted. Stir in the butter, cream, and cheese, if using. Season the polenta, to taste, with salt and pepper.