Homemade Garlic Olive Oil Croutons Recipe
Introduction
Homemade croutons are a simple way to add crunchy texture and rich flavor to salads and soups. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create perfectly crisp bites that elevate any dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the croutons are golden and crisp. Let cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture and less moisture.
- Try adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the croutons before baking.
Storage
Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To re-crisp, bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for croutons?
Yes, most breads work well. Sturdier breads like sourdough or French bread hold up best and provide a nice texture.
How do I keep croutons from getting soggy?
Make sure to bake the croutons until fully crisp and cool them completely before storing. Keep them in a dry, airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
PrintHomemade Garlic Olive Oil Croutons Recipe
This recipe for Homemade Croutons is a simple and delicious way to add crunchy texture and savory flavor to your salads, soups, and snacks. With just a few basic ingredients—bread, olive oil, garlic, and salt—these croutons are easy to prepare and perfect for elevating any dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of croutons 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (preferably day-old or slightly stale bread)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Start by cutting the bread into roughly 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they toast evenly and develop a crisp texture.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Bake the Croutons: Spread the coated bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the croutons turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to toss or stir them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Cool and Store: Remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, use them immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture and absorption of olive oil.
- You can customize flavors by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley during the tossing step.
- Keep an eye on the croutons towards the end of baking to avoid burning.
- Store homemade croutons in an airtight container to keep them crunchy.
Keywords: homemade croutons, garlic croutons, baked croutons, salad toppings, crunchy snacks
