Celebrate National Breadstick Day with Good Thyme Gal: Delicious Ideas and an Easy Recipe to Make at Home!
Hello, Good Thyme Gal readers! Get your dipping sauces ready because the last Friday in October is National Breadstick Day—a day dedicated to one of the most beloved, versatile, and dippable side dishes in the world: breadsticks! Whether you like them soft and buttery, crispy and seasoned, or served with a generous side of marinara or alfredo sauce, breadsticks are the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. Today, let’s celebrate these golden, pillowy sticks of joy with some fun ideas and an easy recipe you can make right at home!
A Bite of Breadstick History
Breadsticks have a long and delicious history dating back to 17th-century Italy. Known as "grissini" in their original form, they were thin and crispy, often served as a snack or appetizer. Over time, breadsticks evolved into various shapes and textures across different countries, from soft, buttery versions served alongside pasta dishes to crunchy, seasoned sticks perfect for dipping.
Today, breadsticks come in all sizes and flavors—garlic, herb, cheese-covered, and even sweet! No matter how you enjoy them, one thing is certain: breadsticks are an irresistible treat that always brings a bit of comfort and satisfaction.
Ways to Celebrate National Breadstick Day
There are so many fun (and delicious) ways to celebrate National Breadstick Day, whether you’re dining out, getting creative in the kitchen, or enjoying a cozy night in. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Make Your Own Breadsticks at Home
One of the best ways to celebrate is by making your very own batch of homemade breadsticks. There’s something special about the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up a batch right in your own kitchen. Plus, making breadsticks from scratch gives you the freedom to experiment with flavors, textures, and seasonings.
Good Thyme Gal Recipe Alert: Keep reading for my go-to recipe for soft, buttery breadsticks!
2. Host a Breadstick Tasting Party
Why not make National Breadstick Day a social event? Invite friends or family over and serve a variety of breadsticks with different dipping sauces. You can include garlic butter, marinara, pesto, alfredo, and even some creative dips like a spinach artichoke or spicy sriracha mayo. Everyone can mix and match, and you’ll have plenty of tasty combinations to try.
Good Thyme Gal Tip: You can bake different types of breadsticks—some plain, others topped with garlic, parmesan, or even a dusting of Italian herbs. This gives your guests a range of flavors to enjoy!
3. Get Creative with Flavors
Sure, traditional garlic breadsticks are amazing, but why stop there? On National Breadstick Day, try experimenting with new and exciting flavors. You could make cheesy breadsticks with mozzarella, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat, or even try cinnamon-sugar breadsticks for a sweet twist!
Good Thyme Gal Tip: Make a savory and sweet breadstick platter for variety. Serve garlic breadsticks with your main dish, then end the meal with cinnamon-sugar breadsticks and a side of chocolate sauce or cream cheese dip. Yum!
4. Support Local Restaurants
If you’re not in the mood to cook, National Breadstick Day is the perfect excuse to visit your favorite local restaurant or pizzeria and indulge in their breadstick offerings. Many restaurants serve up warm, buttery breadsticks that pair perfectly with a bowl of pasta, soup, or salad. Treat yourself to a meal out or grab some breadsticks to go!
Let’s Celebrate Together!
National Breadstick Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in some carb-filled goodness! Whether you’re making a homemade batch, getting creative with flavors, or enjoying a breadstick feast with friends, there’s no wrong way to celebrate this fun day. I’d love to see how you’re partaking in the breadstick fun, so be sure to share your photos and tag #GoodThymeGal on social media. Let’s celebrate this delicious day together!
Good Thyme Gal’s Homemade Breadstick Recipe
To help you celebrate National Breadstick Day in the best way possible, I’m sharing my simple and delicious recipe for Soft Buttery Breadsticks. These breadsticks are perfect for pairing with your favorite Italian dishes, dipping into sauces, or enjoying all on their own.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tbsp butter (melted)
2 tbsp olive oil
2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
½ tsp dried parsley (optional)
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Cooking Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until it starts to come together. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin stick, about 6-8 inches in length. Place the breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While the breadsticks are baking, mix the olive oil, garlic, oregano, and parsley in a small bowl. Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, immediately brush them with this garlic herb mixture. If you like, sprinkle with grated Parmesan for an extra savory touch.
7. Serve your soft, buttery breadsticks warm with your favorite dipping sauces, or alongside a comforting bowl of pasta.
Happy National Breadstick Day, Good Thyme Gal readers—now, let’s get baking and enjoy every buttery bite!
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Enjoy those breadsticks!
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