Do you love pizza? Then you’ll adore garlic knots! These soft, buttery twists bring pizza dough to a new level. Packed with garlic and herbs, they are perfect as a snack or appetizer. In this article, I’ll guide you through a simple recipe, tips, and tasty variations. Get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible garlic knots that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 package (1.5 lbs) pizza dough (can be store-bought or homemade)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
To make garlic knots, you need a few key ingredients. Pizza dough is the base. You can use store-bought or make your own. You also need butter, which adds richness. Garlic, both fresh and powder, gives the knots their distinct flavor. Dried herbs like oregano and basil enhance the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season.
Optional Ingredients
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Adding grated Parmesan cheese is a lovely touch. It gives a salty, nutty flavor. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness on top. These optional ingredients make the knots even more special. You can choose to use them based on your taste.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions that follow.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
– If using store-bought pizza dough, let it rest for 30 minutes.
Letting the dough rest helps it soften. This makes it easier to shape into knots. If you make your own dough, skip this step.
Shaping the Garlic Knots
– Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough. Aim for a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
– Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips. Each strip should be about 1 inch wide and 5-6 inches long.
– Take each strip and tie it into a knot. Tuck the ends underneath for a nice shape. Arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each knot.
Shaping the knots can be fun! You can make them as loose or tight as you like. Just remember, they will puff up in the oven.
Baking the Knots
– In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
– Use a pastry brush to coat each knot with this garlic butter mixture. Make sure to get garlic and herbs on every knot.
– Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and a puffed-up look.
After baking, brush the knots with any leftover garlic butter. Sprinkle chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
These garlic knots are warm and tasty! You will want to eat them right away. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Knots
Using store-bought dough is quick and easy. It saves time and effort. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. This helps it become soft and easy to shape. Homemade dough is great if you have time. It gives a fresh taste and texture.
For both types of dough, ensure you shape the knots well. Tie each strip into a secure knot. Tuck the ends underneath. This helps them rise nicely in the oven. Space them apart on the baking sheet. They need room to expand while baking.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary. They add a nice twist to the garlic knots. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper for heat. Adjust the garlic amount to suit your taste. If you love garlic, use more! If you prefer less, reduce it.
Mix your herbs into the garlic butter well. This ensures each knot gets a burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different oils. Olive oil can replace butter for a lighter option. These small changes can make the knots your own.
For the full recipe, check the details above and enjoy making these delightful treats!
{{image_4}}
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make garlic knots even more fun with flavor twists. One great option is adding cheese. You can stuff the knots with mozzarella or cheddar before tying them. Melted cheese inside adds a gooey, delicious surprise. Just press some cheese into the dough before you tie the knot.
Another twist is to make spicy garlic knots. Simply add chili flakes to the garlic butter mix. This gives your knots a kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. I love the heat, and it pairs well with the garlic.
Dietary Modifications
If you’re gluten-free, you can still enjoy these knots. Many stores sell gluten-free pizza dough. Just follow the same steps for preparation. The taste may differ slightly, but they will still be tasty.
For those who avoid dairy, there are vegan options too. You can replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. The garlic and herbs will still shine through. This way, you can enjoy garlic knots without compromising your diet.
For more details and the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Storing Garlic Knots
To keep your garlic knots fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture. This helps maintain their soft texture. If you plan to eat them within three days, store them at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, the oven gives the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your garlic knots on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5 to 10 minutes. The knots will regain their crispness. You can use a microwave too, but they may turn soft. Heat them in 15-second bursts until warm. Enjoy these tasty treats just like when they were fresh!
FAQs
Common Questions
How long can garlic knots be stored?
You can store garlic knots in the fridge for up to three days. Just place them in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, try freezing them. They can stay fresh in the freezer for about three months.
Can garlic knots be frozen?
Yes, garlic knots can be frozen! To freeze, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat them.
Cooking Method Questions
Can I use pizza dough for other recipes?
Absolutely! Pizza dough is very versatile. You can use it for calzones, breadsticks, or even flatbreads. Just shape it as needed and bake.
What’s the best way to keep garlic knots warm while serving?
To keep garlic knots warm, place them in a bread basket lined with a clean kitchen towel. This will help trap heat. You can also cover them loosely with foil.
You learned how to make garlic knots from scratch. We covered the main and optional ingredients, along with step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for perfecting the knots and ideas for flavor variations. Storage and reheating methods were also discussed.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy warm, tasty garlic knots any time. Get creative with flavors and enjoy sharing this treat with others. Happy cooking!
