Homemade Gluten Free Croutons for Flavorful Salads and Soups

by Barbara Zeiss June 9, 2023

Today, let’s dive into a recipe for gluten-free croutons that is as simple as it is delicious. Now, I know what you’re thinking: can croutons really be healthy? After all, Plantiful Kitchen is committed to promoting health and wellness, so any recipe we provide should be packed with nutrition. When we’re talking about store-bought croutons made from enriched bread, the answer is a resounding no. Most of those are loaded with refined ingredients and unhealthy additives that do nothing for your body. That’s why we’ve created this clean eats protein-packed recipe for grain-free croutons. Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they’re also high in fiber and protein—the perfect addition to soups, salads, and beyond.

So how do you make homemade croutons that are healthy and delicious? The process couldn’t be easier. Start by ordering high fiber bread online—preferably something clean and simple, like our sesame loaf, which is crafted with wholesome, gut-friendly ingredients. This bread forms the ideal foundation for croutons that will keep your meals filling and nourishing. Once you have your bread, follow these simple steps:

Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces.
Toss the cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Garlic powder, rosemary, and a pinch of sea salt are classics, but feel free to get creative with herbs and spices.
Bake them in the oven on the convection setting at 275°F or pop them into an air fryer for an extra crispy finish. In just minutes, your golden, crunchy croutons will be ready to enjoy (full recipe below).

Historically, croutons were a clever way to extend the life of bread, transforming stale slices into something delightfully crunchy and versatile. Today, even though we don’t always need to worry about preserving bread, croutons remain a culinary treasure. They’re the perfect way to elevate a velvety broccoli cheddar soup or add a satisfying crunch to a crisp, seasonal salad. Plus, this recipe for vegan croutons ensures that everyone at your table can partake in the deliciousness.

So why settle for store-bought when you can whip up these homemade gems with clean and simple eating in mind? Packed with nutrition and loaded with flavor, these croutons are a testament to the idea that healthy eating doesn’t have to sacrifice taste. Whether you're sprinkling them generously over a salad or snacking on them straight from the pan, we’re confident you’ll love the crunch and satisfaction they bring to every bite.

Ready to try it for yourself? Grab a loaf of our bread and let your kitchen be the birthplace of wholesome, crunchy perfection. Happy cooking!

Ingredients:

- 1 Loaf of High-Fiber, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb Bread (Sesame Bread recommended)

- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) or Avocado Oil

- Spices of your choice (Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, and Italian Herbs or Coconut Sugar and Cinnamon)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 275°F on the convection setting. Alternatively, if you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F.
Begin by cutting the loaf of Sesame bread into 1/2-inch cubes, creating bite-sized croutons.
In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) or avocado oil, ensuring all the croutons are lightly coated.
Sprinkle your desired spices over the bread cubes. Some recommended combinations include: garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. If you want a sweet twist, try coconut sugar and cinnamon (these can also be enjoyed as a snack or cereal).
Spread the seasoned croutons evenly onto a baking sheet, ensuring there is a little space between each piece for better airflow. If using an air fryer, place the croutons in the air fryer basket.
Bake the croutons in the preheated oven for 90-120 minutes, or until they become delightfully crunchy. If using an air fryer, cook them for approximately 30 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Once the croutons have reached the desired level of crunchiness, remove them from the oven or air fryer. Allow them to cool completely.
Store your homemade croutons in an airtight container for up to 7 days, ensuring they remain crisp and flavorful.

Now, with these homemade high-fiber and high-protein croutons, you can elevate both your salads and soups, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Enjoy the benefits of added nutrition, a delightful crunch, and a longer-lasting feeling of satisfaction.