Ingredients
- 6 slices whole wheat bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best.
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: or use any herbs you like (thyme, oregano, rosemary)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the bread: Cut the whole wheat bread into roughly 1-inch cubes.
- Season: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (or your chosen herbs), salt, and pepper.
- Toss: Add the bread cubes to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasoning mixture.
- Bake: Spread the croutons in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Stir them halfway through baking for even browning.
- Cool: Let the croutons cool completely on the baking sheet.
Tips:
- Customize: Experiment with your favorite dried herbs and spices for different flavor profiles.
- Stale vs. Fresh Bread: Stale bread crisps up better, but if using fresh bread, increase baking time slightly.
- Storage: Store airtight at room temperature for up to a week to maintain crispness.
How to Use Your Whole Wheat Croutons:
- Salads: The classic use for croutons!
- Soups: Add crunch and texture to soups and stews.
- Casseroles: Use as a topping for extra flavor and crispness.
- Snack: Great by themselves for a satisfying crunch.
