House Made Salad Crotons

I make salad crotons in place of the pebbles that you get from a store and I use fresh bread and some spices, it’s pretty simple and you’ll love the flavor.

So what you’ll now read is more of some general instructions than a real recipe, as you’ll make these to your own taste following my guidance.

I used to use good Italian bread when we still lived in Chicago but out here it’s all sourdough but I’ve learned to cope. I get a loaf of “Classic Sour Dough” from Panera Bread and have them slice it thin, I then let it sit for a day or two and use a few pieces for sandwiches while the loaf dries out a bit.

I use a fairly large metal bowl as it’s easier to mix in. I stack three slices at a time and cut into about ½ strips the length of the slice and then turn and slice again into about ½ inch cubes or whatever size you like. I find a metal or plastic food scraper is helpful in picking up the cubes and getting them into the bowl.

Gather some EVOO, kosher salt, granulated garlic, I like the Costco brand and dried Italian herbs.

Depending on the pouring spout on your OO bottle give the bread cubes a good three times around the bowl, not ever cube needs to be oiled and you’re going to toss so less is more and you can adjust as you go. Grab a nice pinch of kosher salt and granulated garlic and Italian spices.

Use your hands to toss the cubes, oil and spices, grab a couple of cubes and see where you’re at flavor wise. You should taste oil, a touch of salt and a hint of herbs, let the bread sit for a minute, toss again, taste and add touches if you need to and toss again and taste, you’ll get the hang of it. When you’re happy heat your oven to 400. Place the cubes on a large, rimmed baking sheet in a single layer, you may need two sheets.

Bake for 10 minutes and check for crispness, each loaf of bread will take less or more time. Use a spatula to flip and stir. Bake longer in two minute increments, checking the cubes each time until you’re happy; do keep an eye on the cubes as they will get too hard very quickly. When finished, allow to cool and then store in zip type bags in the refrigerator for freshness.