How to Make Homemade Croutons
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Learn how to make homemade croutons from scratch that offer the perfect addition to any salad for a combination of both crunch and flavor.
I used to eat croutons as a snack growing up (anyone else?) – these taste better and are even better for you. Not only can you customize this recipe with a variety of different flavors, these croutons also taste fresh, with just three ingredients used!
Ingredients Needed
To make these homemade croutons, just three ingredients are needed:
- Bread: I prefer to use French bread or a sourdough baguette, but feel free to use whatever bread you have on hand – I’ve also used pumpernickel and rye bread in the past.
- Avocado Oil: not only does this add great flavor, it also comes with a rich source of omega-3’s.
- Seasonings: this is where you may customize the recipe – I love Italian seasoning, but feel free to use garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, etc. The combinations are endless!
How To Make Homemade Croutons
This recipe is quick to prepare, requiring just five simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
- Slice the bread into bite sized pieces, adding to a large bowl. Evenly drizzle the avocado oil and Italian seasoning over the bread, tossing gently until well-combined. Pro tip: the smaller the size, the crunchier the croutons will be.
- Spread the bread cubes into a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake until golden, turning once halfway through cooking in order to brown all sides of the croutons. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cubes, so watch to be sure that they do not burn, between 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for peak freshness. Enjoy!
I love adding these croutons to a variety of salads including my Strawberry Chicken Salad and Steak Salad. These croutons would also pair with a variety of soups including Roasted Tomato Soup and French Onion Soup. Another way to incorporate this recipe is to use a rolling pin or food processor to create breadcrumbs to be used in a variety of recipes.
How to Make Homemade Croutons
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- ½ cup avocado oil
- 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
- Slice the bread into bite sized pieces, adding to a large bowl. Evenly drizzle the avocado oil and Italian seasoning over the bread, tossing gently until well-combined.
- Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake until golden, turning halfway through cooking in order to brown all sides of the croutons. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cubes, be sure not to burn, between 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy!
I will provide you with the tools you need to create a healthy and happy lifestyle that is both realistic and sustainable. Thank you for visiting Abigail Jean, I look forward to sharing more with you!
