Ingredients:

• 1 pkg (450 g) Ontario ground pork
• 3 tbsp (45 mL) cornmeal
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped fresh basil or parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) each salt and pepper
• Half a log of prepared polenta, cut into 12 portions
• 1 log or ball (250 g) fresh mozzarella or bocconcini, sliced into 12
• Fresh basil leaves
• 4 small cocktail tomatoes, sliced
• Aged balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine pork, cornmeal, cheese, if using, basil, garlic, salt and pepper. Form into 12 small patties, about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
2. Spray grill with cooking spray and heat to medium-high. Grill sliders about 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and no longer pink inside and meat thermometer reaches 165ºF (74ºC) when inserted.
3. Spray polenta slices with cooking spray and place on grill. Grill about 6 minutes, turning once and place on platter. Place mozzarella slice on top then slider. Top with tomato, basil and drizzle with balsamic to serve.

Tip: Easily double this recipe and use up the whole log of polenta. You will find it in the international section or grain section of the grocery store.