Garlic Croutons

We like these croutons because they are pretty easy to make, and they are an easy sell to our kids.

• a loaf of bread, cut into cubes
• a few cloves of garlic, flattened
• olive oil
• salt

Start with day-old bread. We like to use French bread, but any kind that doesn't fall apart will work.

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Before the oil starts to smoke, add the flattened garlic to the pan and saute for a minute or two. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the garlic from the pan, and add the bread cubes. Toast the bread cubes, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with salt.

We like to use fleur de sel with mixed herbs, but any salt will do. You can even throw in some pepper if you are up for getting wild and crazy.