Oh, garlic and Parmesan – is there anything more comforting? When I think of Garlic Parmesan Knots, I picture cozy evenings with friends, sharing stories while these delightful little bites are fresh out of the oven. There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, teasing everyone to gather around, eager to indulge.
These knots are not only a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings but also a quick option for a weeknight treat. I remember the first time I made them for a casual get-together; they disappeared faster than I could keep up with the batches. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and showered in that irresistible garlic-Parmesan goodness. Trust me; once you try making these at home, store-bought breadsticks will never be the same!
What’s in Garlic Parmesan Knots?
Pizza Dough: The star of the show! You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, but I love making my own from scratch. The key is to ensure it’s well-kneaded and rises beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! You’ll want it minced finely to release all those delicious flavors. The addition of garlic powder reinforces that amazing garlicky taste in every bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives the knots a cheesy, nutty flavor without being overpowering. I always go for the fresh stuff – it melts better and tastes way more indulgent!
Butter: We’re using unsalted butter so we can control the amount of salt in the knots. It’s all about that rich buttery flavor, which complements the garlic and cheese perfectly.
Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing taste that balances out the richness. It’s like a little herb confetti!
Is Garlic Parmesan Knots Good for You?
Now, let’s not kid ourselves here. Garlic Parmesan Knots, while delicious, are more of an indulgence than a health food. However, they do offer some wonderful benefits:
Garlic: Loaded with antioxidants and known for its health benefits, including supporting heart health and boosting the immune system, garlic is a superstar ingredient.
Parsley: This fresh herb is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants. It’s good for digestion and can help freshen your breath too (though I can’t promise you’ll have minty breath after these).
However, be mindful of portion sizes when enjoying these knots, as they can be quite rich, particularly with the butter and cheese involved. Moderation is key!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
– Enough to serve 4-6 people
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Knots?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this will make cleanup a breeze!
2. If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’ve made your own, make sure it’s risen nicely before you begin.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips, roughly 1 inch wide.
4. Take each strip, tie it into a knot, and place them on your lined baking sheet, leaving space between each knot.
5. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over each knot.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the knots, making sure they are well-covered.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
8. Once they’re out of the oven, add a bit more melted butter if you like and sprinkle the fresh parsley on top.
9. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Garlic Knot Variations & Fun Twists!
– Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella adds an oozy goodness.
– Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat – if you want to spice things up!
– You can even brush some pesto onto the knots before baking for an herby twist.
The versatility of garlic knots is part of their charm. You can really make them your own!
Next time you’re whipping up dinner, give these Garlic Parmesan Knots a try and enjoy the compliments coming your way. I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness – let me know how they turn out! Happy cooking!