Easy Italian Dinner Rolls

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The Italian dinner roll—a classic comfort food, beloved for its soft, pillowy texture and buttery aroma. But today, we’re taking this timeless recipe to new heights, infusing it with a global medley of flavors. The result? A culinary masterpiece that pays homage to tradition while embracing innovation.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm water (105°F-115°F)
  • 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Glaze:
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

    • Preparation Process:

    1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
    2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and gradually mix until a dough forms.
    3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
    4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
    5. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
    6. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle, spread with the filling, and roll it up tightly.
    7. Second Rise: Place the shaped rolls on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
    8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
    9. Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together melted butter, honey, and oregano.
    10. Finish: Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush them with the glaze.

    Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Serve these Italian dinner rolls warm, with a side of marinara sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

  • Pair them with a hearty soup or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
  • Enjoy them as an appetizer, alongside a platter of cured meats and cheeses.

    • A Fusion of Flavors

    This recipe is a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion. The Italian dinner roll, a staple of Italian cuisine, is elevated with the addition of fresh herbs, tangy lemon zest, and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s a delightful blend of old and new, a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate.

    Each bite is a journey through time and culture, a reminder of the interconnectedness of our world. As we savor this culinary masterpiece, we celebrate the diversity of human ingenuity and the power of food to bring us together.