Garlic Knots

 So easy to make.  They are great plain or to dip in marinara sauce, ranch dressing, chick-fil-a sauce, or cheese sauce.   I like to make them to go along with pasta meals too.

Garlic Knots:

(makes 14-18 )

Ingredients:

*1 cup very warm water

*1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

*1 teaspoon granulated sugar

*1 teaspoon salt

*2 teaspoons olive oil

*2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

*1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/2 cup butter

*3 tablespoons minced garlic 

*2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (can use 1 teaspoon dried parsley if you don't have fresh on hand).

*grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

~In a small bowl, dissolve 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar in 1 cup warm water.

~Allow the yeast to proof (become bubbly), about 10 minutes.

~In a large bowl, mix 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.

~Mix in yeast mixture. 

~Knead dough, until it is no longer sticky.  You may need to add a sprinkle or two of flour.

~Place the dough into a well oiled bowl, and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

~Allow to rise until double in size.  About 1 hour.

~Combine 1/2 cup butter and 3 tablespoons minced garlic in a small saucepan over low heat.

~Cook until garlic is tender, 3-5 minutes.

~Cover, and remove from heat and stir in parsley. 

~Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

~Spray two baking sheets with cooking spray.

~Place dough onto a lightly floured surface.

~Roll dough out into a rectangle about 14 x 12 inches.

~Cut the dough in  half lengthwise.

~Cut the dough crosswise into strips about 1 1/4 inch wide.

~Tie each strip into a loose knot and place on prepared baking sheet 2-inches apart.

~Lightly brush tops with olive oil.

~Sprinkle the tops with a little coarse sea salt (optional).

~Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow to rise if a draft free area for 20-30 minutes.

~Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

~Allow to cool for 5 minutes.

~Pour garlic butter mixture into a large bowl.

~Add Knots and toss until knots are well coated.

~Plate garlic knots and sprinkle with a little grated parmesan cheese if desired.