Yields: About 2-3 cups
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Ingredients:
- Bread: 1/2 loaf of day-old crusty bread (ciabatta, sourdough, baguette, French bread), cubed into approximately 1-inch pieces. You’ll need around 4-5 cups of cubed bread.
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/4 cup, oil-packed or dry, finely chopped (If using dry, soak in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and chop)
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon (basil, oregano, thyme, etc.)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the coating: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bread: Toss the bread cubes into the bowl with the seasoned oil.
- The Parmesan touch (optional): Sprinkle the Parmesan over the bread cubes, if using. Use your hands to coat all the bread pieces evenly with the mixture.
- Bake: Spread the bread cubes onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Croutons are done when golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the croutons cool completely on the baking sheet before using or storing them in an airtight container.
Tips:
- Bread choice: The type of bread you use will influence the flavor and texture. Choose sturdy bread for the best croutons. Using slightly stale bread helps it soak up flavors and crisp up nicely.
- Customize flavors: Add other spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs finely chopped can also be wonderful.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the seasoned bread cubes a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and bake them fresh when you need them.
Serving Suggestions:
- Salads: The classic use – toss them over Caesar salad, panzanella, or any leafy salad.
- Soups: Top creamy soups like tomato bisque or roasted vegetable soups.
- Snacks: Enjoy them on their own for a simple, savory snack.
Enjoy your homemade sun-dried tomato croutons!
