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homemade croutons recipe how to make herb garlic parmesan cheese gluten free bread

Homemade Croutons

By Kimberly Killebrew
Crispy, crunchy, savory croutons have been a favorite topping for salads and soups for ages.  And for flavor, texture and freshness absolutely nothing beats homemade! 
5 from 27 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil or butter (or combination)
  • 3 cloves garlic , cut in slices
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano , crumbled with fingers
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil , crumbled with fingers
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme , crumbled with fingers
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 cups sourdough bread cubes , cut or torn into 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes depending on size preference (or cut into strips for dipping)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350° F.   
    Heat the oil, garlic, dried oregano and dried basil in a small saucepan over medium heat and simmer until the garlic is very fragrant, about 5 minutes.  Be careful the garlic doesn't burn or it will be bitter.  Discard the garlic slices.  Stir in the salt and pepper. 
  • Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and pour the flavored oil over them, tossing them to ensure they are evenly coated.   Add the Parmesan cheese and toss to evenly coat. 
    Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.  Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the croutons have turned golden, stirring them halfway into baking.  Let the cool completely. 
    Use immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they will keep for up to a week.  Note: If you're opting for one of the dry seasoning options mentioned in the blog post (in other words, not using fresh garlic or fresh parsley), the croutons will keep for up to 2 weeks.
    Makes about 4 cups croutons.

Nutrition

Calories: 336kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 11gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 609mgPotassium: 152mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 129IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 148mgIron: 4mg
Course condiment
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