South of the Border Chili Croutons
Bring a bold, zesty twist to your culinary creations with South of the Border Chili Croutons! These golden, crispy bites are crafted from cubed stale baguette or artisan bread, tossed in a vibrant blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and lime zest for a tantalizing hit of smoky, tangy flavor. A dash of optional cayenne pepper adds customizable heat for spice lovers. Perfectly baked in just 15 minutes, these irresistibly crunchy croutons are ideal for adding excitement to salads, soups, or even enjoyed as a stand-alone snack. Quick, easy, and bursting with south-of-the-border flair, this recipe is a game-changer for any kitchen!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups (cubed) stale baguette or artisan bread
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 0.25 teaspoon optional: cayenne pepper (for additional heat)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cut the stale baguette or artisan bread into 1/2-inch cubes, measuring about 4 cups total. Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, lime zest, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Pour the seasoned olive oil mixture over the bread cubes and toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the spices.
Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
Bake the croutons in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Use the South of the Border Chili Croutons to enhance the flavor and texture of your favorite salads, soups, or even as a snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2990 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.0 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.5 g | 48% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 6016 mg | 262% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 541.6 g | 197% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.4 g | 80% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.0 g | ||
| Protein | 86.9 g | 174% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 222 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 26.1 mg | 145% | |
| Potassium | 1257 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
