Homemade Parsley and Garlic Croutons

If there is nothing I like more, it's a big flipping salad. Sometimes it just sounds so good, especially if I've been eating a lot of not-so-good for you things.

When my husband and I make salads, we make 'em big with lots of toppings. The toppings are (not surprisingly) my favorite part. A while back, I really wanted croutons on my salad and we had none. Thus, homemade parsley and garlic croutons were born.

Want to make your own? You'll need:
• 2 TBSP of butter (you can use less)
• 1 slice of bread (I used whole wheat, it's great with white too)
• a generous dash of parsley flakes
• a generous dash of garlic salt

You'll also want:
• A cookie sheet & oven
• A microwave safe bowl or measuring cup

1) Preheat your oven to 350. I use my toaster oven. Melt the butter in a microwave safe bowl or measuring cup. Add a generous dash of parsley and garlic salt. (I probably "dash" the spices 5 or so times into the melted butter)

2) Cut your bread into 1/2" size or so cubes and dunk them in the butter. I use a butter knife to scoot them around and mix the bread so it all gets a nice coating.

3) Your oven should now be at about 350. Arrange the cubes on the tray and let them cook for about 5-10 minutes. Keep your eye on them and move them around so that all sides get crispy and toasted, not just the bottom side burnt (I speak from experience! :)

  

4) Remove them carefully and let them cool for a bit. Add them to your big flippin' salad with other toppings (in this salad, I used chopped chicken, cranraisins, a bit of celery, a boiled egg, cucumber, tomato...) and enjoy!