The ultimate game-changer for salad and soup lovers: sourdough croutons! I mean, who needs store-bought when you can make your own crunchy, flavorful goodness at home? I’m obsessed with these babies, and I’m about to share my secrets with you. Get ready to level up your meal prep and become the crouton master!
Homemade Garlic & Herb Sourdough Croutons (Air Fryer or Oven)
This recipe rocks because it’s ridiculously easy and versatile – you can make it in either the air fryer or oven, depending on your mood (or available kitchen real estate). Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose stale bread and reduce food waste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) or your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the sourdough bread cubes with garlic, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. If using the air fryer, cook the croutons in batches for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway. If using the oven, spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the croutons from the air fryer or oven and let them cool completely.
Why You’ll Love It:
These homemade croutons are a total flavor bomb, with the perfect balance of crunchy texture and savory flavor. Plus, they’re ready in under 15 minutes – talk about a quick salad topping win! You can also customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices to match your meal’s vibe.
Variations and Tips
Want to mix things up? Try adding some grated Parmesan or dried herbs to the crouton mixture for an extra burst of flavor. You can also use different types of stale bread, like baguette or ciabatta, for a unique texture. Experiment with various seasonings, like paprika or garlic powder, to create your signature crouton flavor.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, making your own sourdough croutons is a total no-brainer – it’s easy, delicious, and customizable. With these recipes, you’ll be enjoying crunchy, flavorful salad toppings and soup toppings in no time. Whether you’re a fan of the air fryer or oven method, you’ll love the speed, flavor, and convenience of these homemade croutons. So go ahead, get creative, and crouton-ify your meals – your taste buds will thank you!
To recap, the key to amazing sourdough croutons is using stale bread, fresh herbs, and a bit of olive oil magic. So next time you’re meal prepping or cooking up a storm, don’t forget to whip up a batch of these addictive crunchy bites. Happy cooking, and don’t say I didn’t warn you – once you go homemade, you’ll never go back to store-bought croutons again!
