Garlic Knots Recipe

Have you ever wondered why garlic knots are the perfect crowd-pleaser at any gathering?

According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, over 70% of pizza lovers consider garlic bread one of their top favorite appetizers. Garlic knots, a delightful fusion of pizza dough and roasted garlic, have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. This easy-to-follow garlic knots recipe will elevate your cooking game and satisfy your guests’ cravings for something deliciously savory.

Ingredients List

• Pizza Dough (1 pound): The foundation of your garlic knots, pizza dough is soft and chewy, perfect for wrapping up the garlic goodness. You can use store-bought or homemade for an extra touch.
• Garlic (4-6 cloves): Freshly chopped or crushed, garlic gives the knots their signature flavor. Fresh garlic has a more robust taste compared to powdered options, enhancing the overall dish.
• Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): This adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better than salted varieties.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Chopped parsley brings a bright, fresh note and some color. You can substitute with dried parsley if needed, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
• Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): This ingredient creates umami depth with its salty and nutty flavor. For a different taste, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): This adds a fruity, aromatic element to the garlic knots. Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for enhancing flavor, but any light olive oil can work in a pinch.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Season to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, making each bite more memorable. Opt for kosher salt for a coarser texture or sea salt for a briny touch.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): This adds a subtle kick. Freshly ground black pepper packs more flavor than pre-ground, enhancing the sensory experience.

Timing

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

In comparison, traditional bread-making can take hours with rising and kneading, making this garlic knots recipe an efficient and rewarding option for quick snacks.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures your garlic knots will bake evenly and achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mixture

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with the minced garlic and olive oil until the garlic is fragrant but not browned (about 2-3 minutes). This process infuses the butter with garlic essence.

Step 3: Roll the Pizza Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide). These will be your knots.

Step 4: Shape the Knots

Take each strip and tie it into a knot. Tuck the ends underneath to secure the shape. You can also twist the dough for a fun presentation.

Step 5: Assemble on Baking Sheet

Place the knots on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for expansion. Brush each knot generously with the garlic butter mixture.

Step 6: Sprinkle Cheese and Herbs

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the knots and add finely chopped parsley on top for a burst of color.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone within a mile radius.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Once they’re out of the oven, brush them again with any remaining garlic butter for extra richness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per garlic knot – A relative indulgence, but packed with flavor that makes it worth it.
• Carbohydrates: Provides energy, vital for a balanced diet.
• Protein: Contributes to muscle repair and growth, especially if you consider including more cheese.
• Fat: The healthy fats from olive oil promote heart health while enhancing flavor.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Garlic and parsley are great sources of vitamins C, B6, and manganese, which boost the immune system and improve overall health.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole Wheat Pizza Dough: For added fiber and nutrients, switch to whole wheat pizza dough. This changes the texture slightly, making it denser and with a nuttier taste.
• Vegan Butter: To make this recipe plant-based, use a high-quality vegan butter. This maintains a similar flavor profile without dairy.
• Nutritional Yeast: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor while making it vegan and lactose-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, garlic dipping oil, or ranch dressing for extra flavor options.
• Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Meal Pairings: Pair your garlic knots with salads, soups, or pasta dishes for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overknotting the Dough: Tying the knots too tightly can prevent them from expanding in the oven. Aim for a gentle knot that allows for some puffing.
• Using Cold Butter: If the butter is too cold when mixing with garlic, it won’t infuse flavors properly. Melt it gently as instructed.
• Skipping the Second Butter Brush: Not brushing the knots again after baking can lead to dryness. The second layer of garlic butter adds richness and moisture.

Storing Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To keep them longer, freeze the knots in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven to restore the crunchy outer layer. Microwave if you prefer softer knots, but they may lose their texture.

Conclusion

Garlic knots are easy to make and are sure to impress your friends and family. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a delicious appetizer that will keep everyone coming back for more. Don’t forget to try the recipe and share your thoughts in the comments!

FAQs

A: Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this garlic knots recipe?

A: Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough makes the process easier without compromising on flavor.

B: Q: How can I make the knots spicier?

A: Adding crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mix or using spicy cheese can elevate the heat level of your in knots.

C: Q: Is it possible to make these garlic knots gluten-free?

A: Yes! Utilize gluten-free pizza dough, found at many grocery stores, for a delicious gluten-free version of this recipe.

Garlic Knots

---

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make garlic knots, perfect for any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Pizza Dough
• 4–6 cloves Garlic, freshly chopped or crushed
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with the minced garlic and olive oil until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick and slice into strips (about 1 inch wide).
4. Take each strip and tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath.
5. Place knots on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
6. Brush each knot with the garlic butter mixture.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and parsley on top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Brush with remaining garlic butter after baking and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with marinara sauce or garlic dipping oil for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 knot
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: garlic knots, appetizers, easy recipes, Italian cuisine, crowd-pleaser