Croutons (with Variations)

By Hklbrries

It's amazing what toasted bread can do for a sleepy pile of (yawn) greens.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf sliced white sandwich bread (20 to 24 ounces), cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Kosher salt

Preparation

Step 1

Heat oven to 350 F. Dividing evenly between 2 rimmed baking sheets, toss the bread with the oil and 1 1/2 tsp salt. Arrange in a single layer and bake, tossing the bread and rotating the pans halfway through, until golden and crisp, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely on the pans.

Tip: The croutons can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Variations:

Herbs: 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley and 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme or rosemary

Spices: 2 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Cheese: 3/4 cup grated Parmesan (use cheese croutons within 1 week)