Salad Croutons

Salad croutons are small, crunchy cubes of bread that have been seasoned and baked or fried until golden and crisp. Typically made from stale bread, they are tossed with oil, butter, and herbs like garlic, parsley, or oregano, and are a classic topping for salads and soups. This dish is a staple in Western cuisine, particularly in American and European cooking.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Salad croutons are primarily a source of carbohydrates and fat, with minimal protein. They provide a quick energy boost and some dietary fiber, but are often high in sodium and calories, with a typical serving containing around 100-150 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	120 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	4.5 g
Fiber	1.2 g
Sugar	1.5 g
Sodium	210 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Thiamin	0.2 mg
Niacin	2.5 mg
Folate	45 mcg
Calcium	30 mg
Magnesium	10 mg
Phosphorus	40 mg
Selenium	6 mcg

Per 1 cup (30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Croutons originated as a way to use up stale bread, reducing food waste in kitchens. Nutritionally, they add texture and flavor to meals but are often considered a 'empty calorie' food due to their high fat and carb content with little nutritional benefit.