Crisp and golden outside, creamy within, polenta cakes are one of my favorite Foundations in the Studio Kitchen—a simple, versatile canvas for mushrooms, roasted vegetables, cheese and whatever happens to be waiting in the Studio Pantry.

A thoughtfully gathered collection of the ingredients and workhorses I reach for again and again—from good olive oil, salts and vinegars to pasta, polenta, pizza dough and a few other favorites that make everyday cooking both simpler and more delicious.