Croutons
Olive Oil Toasted Croutons
Ingredients:
1. 1 loaf of good-quality bread (French baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta work well)
2. Extra virgin olive oil
3. Salt (optional)
4. 2-3 cloves of garlic
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick slices. If you prefer smaller croutons, you can then cut these slices into halves or quarters.
2. Natural Olive Oil Croutons:
* Arrange half of the bread slices or pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
* Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over each piece of bread, ensuring each piece gets a good coat.
* If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt over each slice.
3. Garlic Olive Oil Croutons:
* Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
* In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with some olive oil. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavor.
* Arrange the other half of the bread slices or pieces in a single layer on another baking sheet.
* Using a brush, apply the garlic-infused olive oil onto each slice or piece of bread.
* Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of salt over each slice.
4. Baking:
* Place both baking sheets in the oven.
* Toast the bread for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy. Make sure to check them occasionally to prevent burning. Depending on the thickness and type of bread, and individual oven characteristics, the time might vary slightly.
Once toasted, remove from the oven and let them cool.
Serve your croutons with your favorite seafood spreads. They should be crispy, flavorful, and a perfect accompaniment to your dinner party!
Note: You can store any leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to a week. If they lose some of their crispness, you can re-toast them briefly in a warm oven.
1. Seaweed Tartare with Lemon:
- Thin Lemon Slice: A very thin slice or a twist of lemon peel can highlight the citrus element.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted black or white sesame seeds would contrast nicely with the color of the seaweed and add a subtle nutty flavor.
- Microgreens: These would provide a pop of color and freshness.
2. Rillettes of Saint Jacques with Xeres Vinegar:
- Red Bell Pepper Strips: Thin strips or a tiny dice of red bell pepper can add color and a slight sweetness that complements the Saint Jacques.
- Fresh Parsley Leaf: One small fresh parsley
Ingredients:
1. 1 loaf of good-quality bread (French baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta work well)
2. Extra virgin olive oil
3. Salt (optional)
4. 2-3 cloves of garlic
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick slices. If you prefer smaller croutons, you can then cut these slices into halves or quarters.
2. Natural Olive Oil Croutons:
* Arrange half of the bread slices or pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
* Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over each piece of bread, ensuring each piece gets a good coat.
* If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt over each slice.
3. Garlic Olive Oil Croutons:
* Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
* In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with some olive oil. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavor.
* Arrange the other half of the bread slices or pieces in a single layer on another baking sheet.
* Using a brush, apply the garlic-infused olive oil onto each slice or piece of bread.
* Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of salt over each slice.
4. Baking:
* Place both baking sheets in the oven.
* Toast the bread for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy. Make sure to check them occasionally to prevent burning. Depending on the thickness and type of bread, and individual oven characteristics, the time might vary slightly.
Once toasted, remove from the oven and let them cool.
Serve your croutons with your favorite seafood spreads. They should be crispy, flavorful, and a perfect accompaniment to your dinner party!
Note: You can store any leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to a week. If they lose some of their crispness, you can re-toast them briefly in a warm oven.
1. Seaweed Tartare with Lemon:
- Thin Lemon Slice: A very thin slice or a twist of lemon peel can highlight the citrus element.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted black or white sesame seeds would contrast nicely with the color of the seaweed and add a subtle nutty flavor.
- Microgreens: These would provide a pop of color and freshness.
2. Rillettes of Saint Jacques with Xeres Vinegar:
- Red Bell Pepper Strips: Thin strips or a tiny dice of red bell pepper can add color and a slight sweetness that complements the Saint Jacques.
- Fresh Parsley Leaf: One small fresh parsley