Follow these easy steps to make perfect garlic knots from scratch:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast is activated and frothy, pour it into the flour mixture. Add the olive oil and stir until the dough begins to come together.
• Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
• First Resting Period: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape the Garlic Knots:

• Preheat the Oven: While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 12 inches long and 8 inches wide.
• Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide).
• Tie the Knots: Take each strip of dough and gently tie it into a knot. Place each knot onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Glaze:

• Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove.
• Add Garlic and Herbs: Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.

4. Bake the Garlic Knots:

• Coat the Knots: Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each knot, ensuring they are well-coated. Save some butter glaze for brushing the knots after baking.
• Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Brush with Extra Garlic Butter: Once the garlic knots are out of the oven, brush them with any remaining garlic butter glaze for added flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Garnish: If desired, sprinkle the garlic knots with freshly grated parmesan cheese and additional parsley for a finishing touch.
• Serve: Let the knots cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack!