Description
Crispy and flavorful homemade garlic croutons made with sturdy bread, infused with fragrant olive oil and garlic, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for salads, soups, or as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients
Croutons
- 4 cups bread cubes (cut into 3/4 inch squares, from a sturdy bread like sourdough)
Garlic Oil
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Italian parsley (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the croutons.
- Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic: Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently heat the olive oil and sliced garlic for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic turns golden and fragrant. Take care not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness. Remove the garlic slices from the oil by straining or picking them out, then discard or save for another use.
- Toss Bread Cubes in Garlic Oil: Drizzle the infused olive oil over the bread cubes in the bowl. Toss well to ensure the bread is evenly coated with the flavorful oil.
- Bake Croutons: Spread the coated bread cubes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, flipping the cubes occasionally, until they are golden and crispy.
- Season and Cool: Remove the croutons from the oven and transfer them back to the bowl. Add the minced Italian parsley, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine thoroughly. Allow the croutons to cool before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread for the best texture that holds up well during baking.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic while infusing the oil, as burnt garlic can turn the croutons bitter.
- You can save the cooked garlic slices for other uses such as adding to salads or pastas.
- Store cooled croutons in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain crispness.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic oil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
