If you really want to impress your guests, serve them breadsticks. It’s an elegant thing to do, plus they make great snacks for kids who can’t wait those two minutes until dinner is ready.

These breadsticks are a far cry from the crusty ones you find at restaurants though. They are crusty on the outside, soft on the inside and infused with the flavor of garlic.

Garlicky Bread Sticks

Makes 1 dozen

1 1/4 c. warm water
2 Tblsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1/4 c. oil
3-4 c. flour (start with 3, add more if dough is sticky)
2 Tblsp. yeast
4 cloves garlic, minced

In a small bowl, mix sugar, yeast and warm water. Set aside for 5-10 min.

In a large bowl, mix oil and salt. Stir in yeast mixture and add flour until the dough is fairly stiff. Turn it out onto a floured board and knead until the dough is smooth.

Flatten the dough out slightly, dump the chopped garlic into the middle and then knead until the garlic is worked into the dough. Divide into 12 pieces and roll to form “snakes”. Lay the breadsticks on a cookie sheet and sprinkle with salt.

Turn the oven on to 350 and put the breadsticks in immediately. Let bake for 20-30 min. or until golden brown.

HINT: You could also brush with oil and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds before baking.