Breadsticks are a popular and tasty side dish that complements many meals. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty bowl of soup or a plate of pasta, breadsticks can add that extra touch of deliciousness to your meal. While you can buy pre-made breadsticks at the store, making them yourself is a great way to customize the flavor and ensure they are as fresh as possible. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and delicious recipe for making breadsticks using refrigerated pizza dough.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making your breadsticks, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
– 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt (to taste)
Preparing the Dough
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing the dough. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a baking sheet. Next, open the package of refrigerated pizza dough and unroll it onto a clean surface. You may need to let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make it easier to work with.
Shaping the Breadsticks
To shape the breadsticks, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle shape using a rolling pin or your hands. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If the dough starts to shrink back, let it rest for a few minutes and then continue rolling. Once the dough is rolled out, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into long, thin strips. The width of the strips can vary depending on your preference, but around 1 inch is a good size for breadsticks.
Adding Flavor
Now it’s time to add some flavor to your breadsticks. Brush the surface of each dough strip with olive oil, ensuring that they are evenly coated. This step will help the breadsticks develop a delicious golden crust when baked. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the oiled dough strips, making sure to cover them evenly. The combination of Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs will give your breadsticks a savory and delightful taste.
Baking the Breadsticks
Once you’ve added the flavorings, it’s time to bake your breadsticks. Carefully transfer the dough strips to the greased baking sheet, placing them about 1 inch apart. This will allow them to rise and cook evenly. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them as they can quickly become too brown if left unattended.
Taking Them Out of the Oven and Serving
After the baking time is complete, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling period allows them to become more firm and easier to handle. Once they have cooled slightly, you can transfer them to a wire rack or serving plate.
Breadsticks are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. They can be served alongside a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, or as a delicious appetizer. To take your breadsticks to the next level, you can serve them with a side of marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy dipping sauce.
Customizing Your Breadsticks
One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a different cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, feel free to substitute it for the Parmesan cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your desired flavor profile. For example, if you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or paprika to the seasoning mix.
Conclusion
Making breadsticks from refrigerated pizza dough is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy warm and homemade breadsticks in no time. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends. So why settle for store-bought breadsticks when you can easily make your own? Give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of freshly baked breadsticks that will perfectly complement any meal.