Homemade croutons add a nice crunch factor to any salad or soup. Just cut bread into small pieces, toss with olive oil and toast!
ingredient
- 4 ounces bread, French, baguette, or sandwich bread
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional
Directions
- Cut the Bread – Cut the bread into about ¾-inch cubes. Measure out 4 cups for the recipe.
- Heat the Oven – Set the oven rack to the middle position. Heat to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Season the Bread – To a medium bowl, add 4 cups of bread cubes. Drizzle olive oil on top, and stir evenly to coat. Sprinkle in the salt and Italian seasonings, and stir to combine.
- Bake the Bread – Transfer the bread to a rimmed sheet pan. Spread into a single layer. Bake for 5 minutes. Stir and bake for another 5 minutes. The croutons should be lightly browned and crispy. If needed, bake for another 2 to 4 minutes or until dry and crunchy.
- Toast the Bread – Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the olive oil, once hot, add the 4 cups of bread in a single layer. Toast, stirring every 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes total.
- Season the Croutons – Turn the heat down to low. Sprinkle the salt and Italian seasonings over the croutons, stir to combine.
- Cool the Croutons – Turn off the heat, and move to a cool area on the stove. Cool the croutons completely in the skillet for about 10 minutes.
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