Top It Off

Sometimes it's just about the special touches. Things can be simple, but if you put a little effort into a special touch or two, it makes it seem spectacular! With the weather warming up and us both wanting to shed some winter weight, we have been eating a lot of salads in this house. Now what I'm about to tell you is not "weight conscious" eating necessarily but remember, even eating healthier, sometimes a treat is in order. Today, that treat comes in the form of bacon bits and croutons on my salad! The salad is pretty simple, just what was in the fridge:

Mixed greens, white onion, celery, tomato, and garbanzo beans for protein. But it just didn't feel finished to me and I really felt we deserved a special touch.

Homemade Croutons & Bacon Bits

Bacon Bits: Easy Peasy! I just took 4 slices of thick slicked smoked bacon, chopped into small pieces, and fried in the cast iron skillet. Drain well on paper towel (we can spare of the fat!).

Croutons: This is another one you may custom make to your taste. The possibilities are endless. And it is really easy.

2 slices of bread, any style (day or two old is even better but I used fresh), cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper
garlic powder
cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon of butter

In a bowl, toss together all ingredients, except the butter. Add the pat of butter to a nonstick pan and melt over medium heat. I use the butter for extra flavor, you can leave it out. Put the cubes of bread into the pan in a single layer and toast. Toss to make sure you're toasting the bread evenly. When crisp, remove to paper towel to drain any excess oil and to cool.

Top your favorite salad and enjoy! Nothing like homemade croutons and homemade bacon bits. Skip the bacon in a jar and the croutons in a box, because that's what they taste like. This process takes only a few minutes and the difference is amazing. You'll thank me later!