Salads > Salad Toppings > Crunchy Toppings > Croutons Recipe (Homemade)

Homemade Garlic Herb Croutons

Elevate your salads with these delicious homemade garlic herb croutons. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, they're the perfect crunchy topping for any salad.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 6 cups, cubed Bread (stale is best)
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Herb Blend
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Stale bread works best for making croutons because it will dry out nicely in the oven.

Season the Bread

In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian herb blend, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the bread is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Bake the Croutons

Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Turn the croutons halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Cool and Store

Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 700mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Using whole wheat bread will increase the fiber content. Reduce the amount of olive oil to lower the fat content. Consider using low-sodium salt if you are watching your sodium intake.

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FAQ

  • Can I use different types of bread?

    Yes, you can use various types of bread, such as sourdough, French bread, or even gluten-free bread. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
  • Can I add other herbs or spices?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor to your liking.
  • How do I make these croutons without an oven?

    You can also make croutons in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned bread cubes and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy.