Let’s start with the polenta. ( 20 minute process) In a medium size pot heat water, cream, salt + pepper to a simmer. Slowly add corn meal. Cook slowly stirring almost constantly with a wire wipe for the first 10 minutes of the cooking process, switch to wooden spoon for 2nd 10 minutes scraping the bottom as you go along.During the last 5 minutes add cheese and butter.
While the polenta is cooking prepare your scallops. Heat a large sauté pan until quit hot. Toss your scallops with 1 Tbls of oil and some salt and pepper , add to pan , cook 2 minutes each side. If need be cook in 2 batches ( don’t crowd ). When done drizzle with remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Scoop some of the polenta onto your dinner plates and place scallops on top , pour juice from pan over them and garnish with chives. Really delicious.