Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Rolls

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, salt, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed, but keep the dough slightly tacky.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
7. Spread the sun-dried tomato mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
8. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
9. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even-sized rolls, about 1-1.5 inches thick.
10. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan or a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
11. Cover the rolls loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
12. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
13. Once risen, bake the sun-dried tomato basil rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
14. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

These sun-dried tomato basil rolls are flavorful and aromatic, making them a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or as a delicious snack on their own. Enjoy the delightful combination of sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan in these savory rolls!