Garlic Knots

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the satisfaction of fresh, warm Garlic Knots. Recently, I decided to whip up a batch of these delicious morsels, and they quickly became a favorite in our household. The moment they came out of the oven, the aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen, drawing my family in like bees to honey. These knots are not only a delightful accompaniment to pasta and pizza, but they also make for an irresistible snack on their own. As soon as we took our first bites, we were hooked! If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table, this is it.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

1. Shape the Knots:

• Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6-8 inches long, then tie it into a loose knot. Place the knots on the prepared baking sheet.

1. Bake the Knots:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and cooked through.

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter:

• While the knots are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. If you want extra flavor, add the Parmesan cheese at this point.

1. Coat the Knots:

• Once the garlic knots are done baking, immediately brush them with the garlic butter mixture while they’re still warm.

1. Serve:

• Serve the Garlic Knots warm, with extra garlic butter for dipping or alongside marinara sauce for a delicious snack or side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 12 knots
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

These Garlic Knots can be served in a variety of delightful ways:

• As a Side Dish: Pair them with your favorite pasta dishes.
• With Pizza: They make an excellent sidekick to a hot slice.
• As a Snack: Serve them on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• At Parties: Place them on a platter for guests to enjoy as finger food.
• With Soup: Pair them with your favorite soup for a comforting meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in flavor.
2. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to add different types of cheese like mozzarella or Italian blends for an extra cheesy flavor.
3. Dough Options: You can use homemade dough for a fresher taste or opt for store-bought for convenience.
4. Baking Sheet: Ensure there’s enough space between the knots on the baking sheet for even cooking.
5. Warm Up Leftovers: Reheat any leftover knots in the oven to restore their delightful softness.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add shredded cheese inside the knots before baking for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Garlic Knots: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Knots: Mix in other herbs such as oregano or thyme to the garlic butter for additional flavor.
• Stuffed Garlic Knots: Fill the dough with a mixture of spinach and cheese before knotting for a more substantial snack.
• Sweet Garlic Knots: Drizzle with a bit of honey or serve with a sweet dipping sauce for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Garlic Knots with:
• Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing for dipping.
• Alfredo Sauce: For a creamy contrast.
• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: For a light dipping option.
• Homemade Pesto: For a herby flavor burst.
• Side Salad: To balance the richness with freshness.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: Place fully cooled knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat pizza dough?

• Yes, whole wheat dough will work well for a healthier option.

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

1. Are these knots suitable for freezing?

• Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure to store them properly.

1. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

• Dried parsley can be used, though fresh will provide a brighter flavor.

1. How can I make them more garlicky?

• Simply increase the amount of minced garlic in the butter mixture to your taste.

1. Can I add other seasonings?

• Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the garlic butter.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.

1. How long do they last in the fridge?

• They should stay fresh for about 3 days in the fridge.

1. Can I use pre-made garlic butter?

• Yes, using pre-made garlic butter can save time.

1. What type of cheese pairs best?
   • Parmesan and mozzarella are both great options to sprinkle on top.

Conclusion

Garlic Knots are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for any occasion. Their delightful aroma and taste make them an instant hit with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish with pasta or pizza, or serving them as a snack at your next gathering, these knots are bound to impress. With their buttery, garlicky goodness, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds! Try making this recipe today and bring a little extra joy to your table.

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