Scrumptious Croutons
Crispy, flavorful homemade croutons with a savory Italian dressing coating, perfect for salads or snacking, suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set slices of bread out to dry.
- Cut the bread into cubes.
- Combine the melted margarine with the Italian dressing and mix until well blended.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the bread cubes and stir to coat evenly.
- Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges, stirring a couple of times during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best croutons, use day-old bread to ensure it dries out properly. You can substitute olive oil for margarine for a richer flavor. If you want to add extra seasoning, consider garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even a pinch of grated Parmesan. Adjust the amount of Italian dressing based on your preference for flavor intensity.
Serving Suggestions
These croutons are perfect for adding crunch to salads, particularly a Caesar salad, or soups like tomato or minestrone. They also pair beautifully with dishes such as Dijon-Glazed Chicken. For a fun snack, toss them with some herbs and serve alongside dips like Patty Dorsey Salsa.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until they regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scrumptious Croutons contains roughly 556 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 other types of bread for croutons?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses a loaf of bread, feel free to experiment with sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread. Each type will give your croutons a unique flavor and texture, making them versatile for various dishes.
How can I make croutons without margarine?
You can easily substitute the margarine with olive oil or melted coconut oil for a healthier option. This will also add a different flavor profile to your croutons. Just make sure to mix well with the dressing to ensure even coating.
What should I do if my croutons are too soft?
If your croutons turn out soft, it may be due to insufficient baking time or moisture in the bread. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer for even crisping.
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).