Bagel Croutons
Crunchy, flavorful bagel croutons infused with herbs and Parmesan, perfect for salads or snacking, appealing to those who love crispy, savory toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven if baking the croutons (optional, not specified).
- Break the stale bagels into 6 to 8 small croutons.
- In a bowl, combine canola or corn oil, Parmesan cheese, dry basil, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, cilantro, and salt.
- Toss the croutons with the herb and cheese mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the coated croutons on a baking sheet if roasting in the oven.
- Bake until crispy and golden, or serve as is if using immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your bagel croutons, consider using a mix of oils, such as olive oil for richness. If you’re out of Parmesan, try pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. For added crunch, toss in some sesame seeds or poppy seeds along with the herbs. If you're looking for vegetarian recipes, these croutons are a fantastic addition to salads or soups.
Serving Suggestions
Bagel croutons are perfect for adding a delightful crunch to salads, soups, or even as a topping for casseroles. Try them with a creamy tomato soup or a fresh Caesar salad for a delicious twist. They can also be enjoyed as a snack on their own, perhaps paired with a dip like hummus or guacamole for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until crispy, about 5-10 minutes. This will revive their crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bagel Croutons contains roughly 637 calories, with 23g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (261% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bagels instead of stale ones?
Yes, you can use fresh bagels, but stale bagels will yield a crunchier texture when baked. If using fresh, consider toasting them lightly first to mimic the desired texture of stale bagels.
What other seasonings can I add to the croutons?
Feel free to experiment with various seasonings! Smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, or even Italian seasoning can add a unique flavor. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
How can I make these croutons gluten-free?
To make gluten-free bagel croutons, simply use gluten-free bagels as your base. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).