Ingredients:
- Sourdough bread: 1/2 loaf of stale sourdough (about 4-5 cups cubed), or 1 full loaf of fresh sourdough
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Optional additions:
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
- Dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, dill, or parsley
Instructions:
Prep your bread:
- If using stale bread, cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- If using fresh bread, slice and lay out the pieces on a baking sheet. Bake at 200°F (95°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is dried out but not toasted. Let cool, then cube.
Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Season the bread:
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Toss well with your hands to ensure even coating.
Add optional extras:
- If you’d like, toss in grated Parmesan cheese or your choice of dried herbs for extra flavor.
Bake:
- Spread the croutons in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Stir the croutons halfway through baking for even browning.
Cool and store:
- Let the croutons cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips:
- Don’t skimp on the olive oil: It helps the croutons crisp up and get that perfect golden color.
- Adjust the seasonings: Get creative with your additions! Try a sprinkle of smoked paprika, a touch of cayenne pepper, or your favorite herb blends.
- Use in salads, soups, and more: These sourdough croutons are delicious on salads, amazing in soups like tomato or French onion, and a wonderful snack on their own.
