Garlic Herb Breadsticks

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
2. Make the garlic herb butter
   While the dough is rising, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in parsley, oregano, basil, and thyme. Set aside.
3. Shape the breadsticks
   Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 10×14 inches. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 16 equal strips about 3/4 inch wide.
4. Twist and place
   Gently stretch each strip and twist it a few times to create a spiral effect. Place the twisted breadsticks on two parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each. Brush lightly with olive oil.
5. Second rise
   Cover the shaped breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Bake to golden perfection
   Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until they're golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the garlic herb butter mixture.
7. Add the finishing touch
   While the breadsticks are still warm, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will help the cheese stick to the buttered surface. Serve warm or at room temperature.