Crunchy herb croutons in the air fryer (quick and easy)

Name: Crunchy herb croutons in the air fryer (quick and easy)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 4 slices of sandwich bread; 3 tbsp melted butter; 1 handful of finely chopped parsley; salt to taste; garlic powder (or Parmesan) to taste

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Other

Very Easy

10 min

202 Kcal

Herb croutons made in the Air Fryer are a practical and delicious way to make your meals crispier and tastier. Made with just a few ingredients and ready in minutes, they are ideal for serving with salads and soups, or even as a snack any day of the week. The combination of butter, herbs, and seasonings enhances the bread’s flavor, creating a texture that is golden on the outside and light on the inside. What’s more, cooking them in the Air Fryer is simple and uses less fat. They’re also a great way to use up bread you already have at home and avoid waste.

Ingredients

4 slices of sandwich bread
3 tbsp melted butter
1 handful of finely chopped parsley
salt to taste
garlic powder (or Parmesan) to taste

Materials

Knife
Scissors (optional)
Bowl
Cutting board

Preparation

Preparation5 min

Cook time5 min

Cut the bread into small cubes.
Put the butter in a bowl and melt it (we used the microwave).
Wash, dry, and chop the parsley. One of the easiest ways is to put it in a glass and snip it with scissors.
Mix together the melted butter, chopped parsley, salt, and garlic powder.
Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and gradually pour the mixture over them, mixing well.
Place the bread cubes in the air fryer without overcrowding them. Cook at 180 °C for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through (depending on the size of the cubes).
They’re ready. Serve as a snack or add to salads or soups. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy!

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FAQ ❓

How can you make herb croutons extra crispy in the air fryer?

To make sure your croutons turn out really crispy in the air fryer, pay attention to how they are arranged and how much fat you use. Don’t pile up the bread cubes; leave space between them so the air can circulate better. Use just enough butter or olive oil to coat the bread without soaking it. Stirring halfway through also helps them brown evenly. Another tip is to use bread that is a little dry or stale, as it tends to become firmer when cooked. For even more crunch, cook them for an extra minute or two, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Can I use any type of bread to make croutons in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use different types of bread to make herb croutons in the air fryer, such as sandwich bread, French bread, whole wheat bread, or even artisan bread. Each type has a different texture and flavor: sandwich bread makes lighter croutons, while French or Italian bread yields croutons that are more rustic and firm. Whole wheat bread adds a healthier, more nutritious touch. Ideally, the bread should not be too fresh, as this makes it easier to cut and helps it get crispier. Avoid bread that is too soft or moist, as it may not reach the ideal texture.

How should I store homemade croutons to keep them crispy?

Once they’re ready, let the croutons cool completely before storing them to prevent moisture from building up. Keep them in an airtight jar or other tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the moisture can soften the cubes. If stored properly, air-fried herb croutons can keep their texture for 3 to 5 days. If they lose their crispness, you can put them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up again. This is a great way to use them up without compromising quality.

Which herbs go best with air-fried croutons?

Herbs are essential for flavoring croutons, and you can choose them to suit your taste. Parsley, oregano, and basil are classic options that go very well with bread and butter. Rosemary and thyme add a more distinctive, sophisticated aroma. For a bolder flavor, you can mix dried herbs with garlic powder or onion powder. The important thing is to balance the flavors so they don’t overwhelm the palate. Try different combinations and adjust them to suit the dish the croutons will accompany, such as salads or soups.

Are air-fried croutons healthier than fried croutons?

Yes, croutons made in the air fryer tend to be healthier than those fried in oil because they use less fat. Instead of being submerged in oil, they are cooked with a small amount of butter or olive oil, which significantly reduces the calories. The air fryer also keeps them crispy without deep-frying. For an even lighter version, you can use olive oil instead of butter and choose whole wheat bread. That way, you can enjoy a tasty, more balanced snack any day of the week.

What can I use herb croutons made in the air fryer for?

Herb croutons are extremely versatile and can be used in many dishes. They’re perfect for adding crunch to salads, especially those with leafy greens. They also go very well with soups and broths, adding texture and flavor. Another idea is to serve them as a snack with dips or spreads. In simple dishes, such as scrambled eggs or roasted vegetables, croutons make a crunchy topping. Keeping a small container of them at home makes everyday meals easier and adds a special touch to simple recipes.

Nutrition

for 1 serving / for 100 g

Calories: 202Kcal

Carbo: 28.9g
Total fat: 6.9g
Saturated fat: 4.2g
Proteins: 4.9g
Fibers: 1.7g
Sugar: 1.2g
ProPoints: 5
SmartPoints: 7

Nutritional information for 1 serving (61g)

Cookware

air fryer

Attributes

Zero waste

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Mirella Mendonça

I am the editorial manager at Petitchef (Portugal and Brazil) and a huge enthusiast of travel and world cuisine, always in search of new flavors and experiences. However, as much as I love exploring the delights of different cultures, my mom's cooking will always be my favorite — with that unique flavor that only she can create.

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