In a large mixing bowl combine warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C), instant yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with dough hook on medium for 5 minutes). If dough is sticky, add up to 2 tablespoons more flour, a little at a time.

First rise

Lightly oil the mixing bowl and place the kneaded dough back in, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60 minutes.

Shape breadsticks

Punch down the risen dough and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 50–60 g each). Roll each piece into a 7–9 inch rope, tapering ends slightly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

Second rise & finish

Cover loosely with a towel and let rise 20–25 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) while dough is rising. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian herbs. When ready, gently brush each breadstick with a little olive oil, then after 3–4 minutes in the oven, brush with herb-butter and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven 12–15 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and brush with any remaining melted butter. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Tomato Dipping Sauce

Sauté aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring so garlic doesn’t brown.

Build sauce

Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, broth (or water), sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Simmer & reduce

Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce slightly thickens and flavors meld. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.

Finish

Turn off heat and stir in chopped fresh basil (if using). Let cool a few minutes; serve warm or at room temperature alongside the breadsticks.