Crunchy Ranch Croutons

• loaf sliced bread (best if bread is slightly stale)↗1⁄2
• extra virgin olive oil, melted (butter or margarine)↗2 tablespoons
• (1 ounce) envelope dry ranch dressing mix1 ounce
• Variation
• (1 ounce) envelope caeser salad dressing mix or (1 ounce) envelope buttermilk salad dressing mix↗1 ounce

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cut crust from bread and discard the crust.

2. 2

   Brush both sides of each slice of bread with olive oil, melted butter or margarine.

3. 3

   Slice bread into 1/2-inch strips; turn and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch cubes.

4. 4

   Place bread cubes in a plastic zipper bag; sprinkle with dry salad dressing mix to act as dry seasoning. Securely seal bag and shake, coating bread cubes with dry salad dressing mix.

5. 5

   Spread cubes flat on baking sheet. Preheat oven to 325°F Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on baking sheet.

6. 6

   Note: For bigger croutons, use "Texas Toast" style bread and slice into larger 3/4-inch cubes.