I am really broke this week until Thursday's payday.

I took inventory of what I have at home and picked up a few items to make each of those into a meal.

One of the items was pre-made polenta. I usually just fry it and serve it with pasta and sauce. Maybe I didn't fry it good enough, but my Girlfriend doesn't really care for it.

What should I do with it?

I already have the following for my meal: pasta, garlic bread, pasta sauce, fried ravioli. I also have some shredded romano and asiago cheese. I also have a small container of plain mascarpone cheese.

Maybe there's something I can pick up for $1 or $2 to go with the polenta?

Make a mix of bread crumbs and spices and fry it? I only have vegetable oil (or sesame oil) if that is acceptable. Maybe butter works?

Should I try to oven cook it instead? Broil or bake? I've never done it in the oven because I was afraid it wouldn't be as flavorful. Melt the cheese over top or make something with that mascarpone?

Suggestions are welcome. I have a lot of dry spices on hand.