We’ve all been there: that gorgeous loaf of bakery-style bread that looked so tempting in the grocery has been forgotten. It’s dry and generally unappealing and making you want to simultaneously weep and kick yourself in the pants. I get it, trust me.

Enter the noble crouton!

Croutons are, by definition, super dry. Which is a great thing in this situation! Use your stale bread for a higher purpose: a yummy, garlicky addition to your next salad! (But let’s face it, these are so yummy that I usually scarf them all down before they make it anywhere near a green, so may the force be with you…)

Easy homemade garlic croutons (vegan friendly)

Makes about 2 cups croutons

4 thick slices European-style bread
3 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes. In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread with the olive oil and garlic. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Cool before putting on your favourite salad.

These are incredible on a nice caesar salad! What’s your favourite kind of salad to sprinkle croutons on?