Party Croutons
Crispy, flavorful croutons with a hint of spice, perfect for enhancing soups and salads, suitable for casual gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the oleo and mix thoroughly with celery salt, garlic powder, red pepper, and chili powder.
- Brush the spice mixture onto bread slices using a pastry brush.
- Cut the bread into squares.
- Place the buttered sides of the bread squares on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 4 hours until crispy.
- Allow to cool and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor twist, consider substituting the oleo with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option. You can also experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning or paprika to suit your taste. If using day-old bread, the croutons will be even crispier. Ensure the bread is cut evenly for uniform baking.
Serving Suggestions
These croutons are perfect for adding texture to salads, such as a fresh Caesar salad, or as a topping for soups. They pair beautifully with dishes like Light Harvard Beets With Carrots. Use them to enhance your favorite dip or enjoy them as a crunchy snack on their own.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating them. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C) until they regain their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Croutons contains roughly 177 calories, with 9g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for small loaves, you can use any bread you have on hand, such as sourdough or whole grain. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up during baking for the best texture.
How can I make these croutons spicier?
To increase the heat, add more red pepper or chili powder to the spice mix. You may also consider incorporating cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Just remember to start small and adjust to your heat preference to avoid overpowering the flavor.
Can I make these croutons ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these croutons in advance! Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container. They maintain their crunchiness for up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead option for gatherings or meal prep.
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).