Who buys croutons?

Do you know how easy it is to make croutons?

I was pleasantly surprised the first time I tried it.

Mr. PT and I have gotten into the habit of buying the day-old "fresh" bread at Kroger.  They have it placed on its own little shelf and the tag usually says "1.99! Woo!"  Who wouldn't buy that??

We usually get a ciabatta loaf.  It makes great toast!  AND, it makes great croutons.

So here is what you do.

Slice the bread into 3/4 inch slices.  If the bread is rather soft, toast it.  Cut the bread into 1 inch squares.  Heat 2-3 tbs. of olive oil in a skillet on medium-high.  Throw in the bread cubes.  Season as you like.  I usually do some Italian seasoning with a little salt and pepper.

Toss the bread crumbs regularly.  You will have to stay close because they may burn if left alone for too long.  Toast them in the oil until they reach your desired crispiness.  Place on a napkin-lined plate and you are done!

Delicious, homemade croutons for your next salad!  Or just for munching!

Have you ever looked at the ingredient list on store-bought croutons?  Yuck!  How many ingredients in these? Well, if you count the bread as one ingredient (which may or may not be cheating), there are three ingredients.  Not bad!