Croutons are small cubes or other shapes of toasted or fried bread that are often used as a crunchy topping for salads or soups. A serving size of 1/3 cup of croutons contains around 74 calories.

While croutons may not provide much in the way of nutritional value, they can add texture and flavor to dishes. Depending on the type of bread used to make them, croutons may contain some vitamins and minerals.

If you're looking to add some crunch and flavor to your favorite salad or soup, croutons can be a tasty option. But before you start loading up on them, it's important to be aware of their calorie content and portion sizes.

What are croutons?

Croutons are typically made from bread that has been cut into small pieces and then fried or toasted until crispy. They can be made from any type of bread, although sourdough and French bread are common choices. Croutons can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, as well as garlic or Parmesan cheese, to add additional flavor. They are often used as a garnish for soups and salads, but can also be eaten as a snack.

Nutritional value of croutons

The nutritional value of croutons can vary depending on the type of bread used to make them and the method of preparation. Generally speaking, croutons are not a significant source of vitamins or minerals, but they can provide some carbohydrates and small amounts of protein and fiber. However, because croutons are often high in calories and fat, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes when incorporating them into your diet.

Health benefits of croutons

While croutons may not be the healthiest food choice, they can still offer some benefits when enjoyed in moderation. By adding texture and flavor to salads and soups, croutons can help make these dishes more satisfying and enjoyable to eat. Additionally, because croutons are made from bread, they can provide some carbohydrates for energy. However, it's important to choose whole-grain breads when making homemade croutons for added fiber and nutrients.

How to use croutons

Croutons can be used in a variety of ways to add crunch and flavor to your favorite dishes. Try topping your salads with croutons for added texture, or adding them to soups and stews for a satisfying crunch. You can also use croutons as a replacement for breadcrumbs in recipes like meatballs or meatloaf. If you want to make your own croutons, it's easy to do using stale bread and a few simple seasonings. See our section on homemade croutons for more information.

Croutons in salads

Croutons can add great texture and flavor to salads, whether they are homemade or store-bought. When using croutons in salads, be sure to choose ones that complement the other ingredients and flavors in the dish. For example, a Caesar salad with garlic and Parmesan croutons or a Greek salad with feta cheese and herb croutons can be delicious and satisfying. However, as with any high-calorie food, it's important to keep portion sizes in check to ensure that you're not consuming too many calories.

Croutons in soups

Croutons can also be a tasty addition to soups and stews, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the warmth and comfort of the dish. When using croutons in soups, consider selecting ones with flavors that complement the flavors of the soup. For example, a tomato soup with basil croutons or a vegetable soup with garlic croutons can be a delicious combination. Again, be mindful of portion sizes when adding croutons to your soups, as they can quickly add up in calories.

Croutons in stuffing

Croutons can also be used to make delicious stuffing for holiday meals and other occasions. To make crouton stuffing, simply sauté onions, celery, and herbs in a pan, then combine them with croutons and chicken or vegetable broth. Bake the mixture in a casserole dish until it's golden and crispy on top. Be sure to use croutons that are seasoned and flavored appropriately for the type of stuffing you're making, and adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Croutons vs crackers

While croutons and crackers may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two. Crackers are typically made of flour, water, and salt, and may be flavored with herbs or spices. They are often eaten on their own as a snack or served with cheese, but can be used in dishes like chicken or tuna salad. Croutons, on the other hand, are made from bread and are generally used as a crunchy topping for salads, soups, and other dishes. They may be seasoned with a wider variety of flavors and spices than crackers.

Flavored croutons

While plain croutons can be tasty on their own, flavored croutons can add an extra level of complexity and interest to your dishes. There are a wide variety of flavors and seasonings that can be used to flavor croutons, such as garlic, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, or Italian herbs. Experiment with different flavors to find the ones that complement your favorite dishes the best.

Homemade croutons

Making your own croutons at home is a great way to control the quality of the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. To make croutons, simply cut stale bread into small cubes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake in a single layer on a baking sheet until crispy and golden brown. You can experiment with different types of bread, seasonings, and flavorings to create the perfect croutons for your favorite dishes.