Garlic Herb Breadsticks

In continuation with my new bread baking obsession I made homemade breadsticks to compliment my Ricotta Ravioli’s at last weeks LA Family Dinner! The result was a thick, flavorful breadstick which was perfect by itself or dipped in my homemade Tomato Basil Marinara!

Ingredients (breadsticks – makes 12)

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 package (.25 oz) yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups flour
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)

Start by combining the yeast, sugar and warm water in a small bowl.

Let stand for 10 minutes or until the mixture begins to bubble.

Combine the salt and flour in a large mixing bowl, then add the yeast mixture and stir well. Next fold in the butter.

I like to use my hands, as my neighbor caught in this pic

Once a solid ball of dough forms place it on a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes.

Next place the ball of kneaded dough in a large bowl spread with olive oil and cover.

Allow to set for 45 minutes or until dough has doubled in size.

Now that the dough has doubled, separate into 12 equal sized ovals.

One by one stretch each breadstick out to about 12 inches in length.

Next fold in half.

Now twist the two sides together.

Once all 12 have been twisted, cover and allow to rise for an additional 30 minutes.

While they’re rising pre-heat the oven to 400° and prepare the garlic herb topping.

Ingredients (topping)

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 2 tbsp mozzarella (shredded)
• 1 tbsp parmesan/romano cheese

Start by melting the butter in a small mixing bowl, then add the rest of the ingredients and mix well.

Now brush the mixture over the breadsticks.

Place breadsticks in the oven for 12-15 minutes.

Remove when the garlic herb mixture starts to brown.

Remove from baking sheet and place on a serving dish.

Serve with ravioli, spaghetti, lasagna or whatever your favorite Italian dish is!

♣ Vegetarian Option: This recipe is vegetarian.

♥ All pottery seen on the littleleopardbook can be purchased by visiting www.longaberger.com/muffetbond or e-mailing keepsakebl@sbcglobal.net.