crouton

Crouton

Croutons are small, crispy cubes of bread that are typically seasoned and toasted or fried to achieve a golden-brown color and crunchy texture. They are often made from stale or day-old bread, which is cut into uniform pieces and flavored with herbs, spices, or cheese. Croutons add a delightful crunch and savory flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes, making them a versatile and popular topping in both casual and gourmet cooking. Their light, airy texture and ability to absorb flavors make them a favorite for enhancing the taste and presentation of meals.

Common Uses

  • Sprinkle croutons over Caesar salad or mixed greens for added crunch and flavor.
  • Use croutons as a topping for creamy soups like tomato bisque or French onion soup to add texture.
  • Crush croutons to create a flavorful breadcrumb substitute for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables before baking or frying.
  • Incorporate croutons into stuffing or dressing recipes for a hearty, flavorful base.
  • Serve croutons as a snack or appetizer, seasoned with garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.
  • Add croutons to pasta dishes or casseroles for a crispy, savory topping.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

407.0kcal (20.35%)

Protein

12.0g (24%)

Carbs

72.0g (26.18%)

Sugars

4.0g (8%)

Healthy Fat

5.1g

Unhealthy Fat

1.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Adds texture and crunch to salads, soups, and casseroles, enhancing the overall eating experience.
  • Typically made from bread, croutons can provide carbohydrates for energy when included in meals.
  • Can be seasoned with herbs and spices, offering a way to introduce additional flavors to dishes.
  • Often used in moderation, they can help make lighter meals like salads feel more satisfying.
  • Whole-grain or low-sodium crouton options are available for those seeking healthier alternatives.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. If homemade, ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess. For longer shelf life, you can freeze croutons in a resealable bag and re-crisp them in the oven when needed.

Chefadora AI is Here.

Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.

Background Squiggy
Chefadora App

Get cooking with the Chefadora App.

Available now for early access users.

Download on the App StoreDownload on the App Store
chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia