Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixing bowl and toss until the bread cubes are coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake the croutons for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Serve the croutons on top of salads, soups, or pasta dishes.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but Italian bread works best.
- You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with any other type of hard cheese.
- You can use fresh oregano instead of dried oregano.
Variations:
- You can add other herbs and spices to the mixture, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.
- You can add chopped garlic or onion to the mixture for extra flavor.
- You can use different types of bread, such as sourdough or French bread.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the bread cubes are evenly coated with the mixture to ensure even baking.
- Use a spatula to flip the croutons halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
- Store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the croutons, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they are crispy again.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the croutons on top of a salad or soup for added texture and flavor.
Garnishes:
Garnish the croutons with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Pair the croutons with a Caesar salad or a tomato soup for a classic Italian meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the croutons alongside a pasta dish or a grilled chicken breast.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the croutons are not crispy enough, bake them for a few more minutes until they are golden brown.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the croutons in an airtight container to prevent them from getting stale.
Food history:
Croutons originated in France in the 19th century and were originally made from stale bread.
Flavor profiles:
The croutons have a savory and salty flavor with a hint of garlic and oregano.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the croutons on top of a Caesar salad, tomato soup, or pasta dish for added texture and flavor.
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Region: Italian