Pour warm water into a mixing bowl. Add the salt, yeast, and sugar, then stir the mixture. Wait for the yeast to foam. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast might be inactive. Check the expiration date or replace it. Once the yeast is foamy, add the olive oil.

Sift the flour and add half of it to the bowl. Begin kneading the dough using a dough whisk, mixer, or wooden spoon. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of flour at a time, continuing to knead. Once the dough forms a ball, transfer it to a floured board and knead by hand, gradually increasing pressure and adding more flour as needed. The finished dough should be slightly sticky and soft.

Grease a bowl with olive oil. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in the bowl. Cover with cling film and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces. Roll out each piece into a bundle. Form them into leaves, stems, and flowers. To join the stems, leaves, and flowers, moisten the joints with water and press them together.

Place the pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover the tray with a towel and let them rise for 20 minutes. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for about 10 minutes or until browned. While the breadsticks are still warm, brush them with butter and sprinkle with garlic salt.

Serve the sticks with dipping sauce or plain.