Recipe: Homemade Croutons or Seasoned Bread Crumbs (microwave)

HOMEMADE CROUTONS
"Prepare croutons to use in salads or to top casseroles."

Cut enough white, wheat, rye or other bread into 1/2-inch cubes to measure 4 cups. Spread cubes in 12x8-inch baking dish. Microwave at High 4 to 5 minutes, or until dry to the touch, stirring every 2 minutes Let stand until cool.

VARIATIONS:

HERB-SEASONED CROUTONS:
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/8 teaspoon salt

Microwave butter at High 30 to 45 seconds, or until melted. Mix in seasonings. Toss cubed bread in seasoned butter. Microwave as directed above.

ITALIAN-SEASONED CROUTONS:
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Microwave butter at High 30 to 45 seconds, or until melted. Mix in seasonings. Toss cubed bread in seasoned butter. Microwave as directed above.

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HOMEMADE BREAD CRUMBS:
Prepare bread crumbs to use for coating, toppings or as an ingredient in recipes.

Microwave Croutons as directed, above. After cooling, crush in blender or place cubes in plastic bag and crush with rolling pin.

VARIATION:

SEASONED BREAD CRUMBS:
Prepare Herb-Seasoned or Italian-Seasoned Croutons as directed, above. After cooling, crush in blender or place cubes in plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Makes 4 cups
From: Recipelink.com
Source: Microwave Cooking Library: 101 Microwaving Secrets, by Barbara Methven, 1982

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