Olive Garlic Breadsticks

These Olive Garlic Breadsticks are irresistibly soft, chewy, and buttery, reminiscent of the beloved ones from Olive Garden. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a side dish for pasta or to accompany soups and salads, these homemade delights will surely impress your family and friends. With a savory garlic butter topping brushed on just before serving, you might find yourself reaching for more than just one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering taste that complements any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: These breadsticks pair beautifully with a variety of dishes—from Italian pasta to hearty soups.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: Each breadstick boasts a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own breadsticks with simple ingredients right in your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Olive Garlic Breadsticks, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Dough hook attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a smooth and elastic texture.
• Dough hook attachment: Helps thoroughly mix ingredients without tiring your arms from manual kneading.

Ingredients

These soft, chewy, and buttery garlic breadsticks taste just like the ones from Olive Garden! Freshly baked and brushed with a savory garlic butter topping, these homemade breadsticks are perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads. You might start with one—but don’t be surprised if you eat more!

For the Dough

• 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

For Topping

• ¼ cup salted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons flaky sea salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon dried parsley

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Olive Garlic Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, mix together the flaky sea salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the lukewarm water with granulated sugar and active dry yeast. Lightly whisk this mixture together and let it sit for 7-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the bread flour, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Using the dough hook attachment on low speed, knead the dough for about 7-8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Transfer your kneaded dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a towel and place it in a warm location to rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Breadsticks

Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long breadstick shape using your palms.

Step 7: Rest Before Baking

Place each shaped breadstick onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them with a towel and let them rest for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Your Oven

While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9: Brush with Butter

After resting, brush each breadstick generously with some melted butter from your topping ingredients.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 11: Final Touches

Once baked, remove them from the oven. Brush warm breadsticks again with any remaining melted butter. Finally, sprinkle generously with the prepared garlic salt topping.

Enjoy these delightful Olive Garlic Breadsticks fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Olive Garlic Breadsticks

Olive Garlic Breadsticks are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these breadsticks can enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Pasta Dishes

• Spaghetti Marinara: The soft texture of the breadsticks pairs perfectly with classic marinara sauce.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: Use the breadsticks to scoop up creamy Alfredo sauce for a delicious combination.

Serve with Soups

• Minestrone Soup: Dip these breadsticks into hearty minestrone for a filling meal.
• Tomato Basil Soup: The garlic flavor complements the rich taste of tomato soup beautifully.

Enjoy with Salads

• Caesar Salad: These breadsticks add a delightful crunch when served alongside crisp romaine and creamy dressing.
• Greek Salad: Pair with fresh vegetables and feta for a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery breadsticks.

Snack on Them Alone

• With Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Dip your breadstick in a mix of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet tasty appetizer.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them warm right out of the oven for guests to enjoy before the main meal.

How to Perfect Olive Garlic Breadsticks

Making perfect Olive Garlic Breadsticks requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your breadsticks turn out soft and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for better rising results.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough thoroughly until it’s smooth; this helps develop gluten for chewy breadsticks.
• Temperature Matters: Let the dough rise in a warm place; this will help it double in size effectively.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on them while baking; remove when they are golden but not too dark.
• Generously Brush with Butter: The melted butter adds flavor and keeps the breadsticks moist after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garlic Breadsticks

Olive Garlic Breadsticks can elevate any meal when paired with the right side dishes. Here are some great options that work wonderfully together.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: These veggies are seasoned perfectly to complement the garlic flavor of the breadsticks.
2. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Salad: This cold salad offers a refreshing contrast to warm, buttery breadsticks.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes for an appealing side that pairs well with breadsticks.
4. Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Basil: Fresh bruschetta adds a burst of flavor that works well with garlic-infused bites.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and cheese create a hearty pairing with soft breadsticks.
6. Cauliflower Cheese Bake: A cheesy side dish that balances well against the lightness of the breadsticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garlic Breadsticks can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using cold water: Cold water can hinder yeast activation. Always use lukewarm water to ensure proper rising.
• Skipping the kneading step: Neglecting to knead the dough can result in dense breadsticks. Knead for the recommended time until smooth and elastic.
• Not letting the dough rise: Failing to let the dough rise adequately will yield flat breadsticks. Allow it to double in size for the best texture.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can lead to dry breadsticks. Keep an eye on them and remove them when golden brown.
• Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting the garlic butter topping results in bland breadsticks. Generously brush with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garlic Breadsticks in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garlic Breadsticks

• Wrap each breadstick tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garlic Breadsticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place breadsticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place breadsticks on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds, being careful not to overdo it as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a little butter and place the breadsticks in the skillet, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Olive Garlic Breadsticks vegan?

You can substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives like olive oil or vegan butter. Use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk if needed.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour gives a chewier texture that enhances the overall experience of Olive Garlic Breadsticks.

What should I serve with Olive Garlic Breadsticks?

These delicious breadsticks pair perfectly with pasta dishes, soups, or salads. They also make a great snack on their own!

How do I know when my Olive Garlic Breadsticks are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown color and a slight firmness when you tap them lightly. If they sound hollow, they are likely ready!

Final Thoughts

Olive Garlic Breadsticks are an irresistible addition to any meal, offering a soft and chewy texture that’s hard to resist. Their buttery garlic flavor makes them perfect as a side dish or snack! You can easily customize these breadsticks by adding herbs or cheese for extra flavor. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!