Homemade croutons

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons (75 ml) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• tsp. salt 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) black pepper, crushed red pepper, and/or Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 5 cups (1.2 L) cubed day-old bread (such as sourdough, baguette, or multigrain)

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). In a large bowl, combine the oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and cheese (if using).
2. Add the bread cubes and toss until coated. Spread the cubes in a single layer in a 15x10-inch (38x25 cm) baking pan.
3. Bake until lightly golden and nearly crisp, 40 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
4. Cool completely; the croutons will continue to crisp as they cool. If you like, store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 24 hours.