Whole Grain Gluten-Free Croutons

Makes 3 cups

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 3 cups cubed Three Bakers 7 Ancient Grain Whole Grain Bread
• 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Whisk together olive oil and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Toss bread cubes until cubes are evenly coated with oil.
3. Spread seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes in a preheated oven. Stir bread cubes every 5 minutes while baking. Croutons are done when golden and toasted. Allow croutons to cool before adding to salad.

Kale Salad with Apple, Pear and Homemade Gluten Free Croutons

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 head curly kale
• 3 to 4 Tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette
• 1 Opal apple, cored and cut into sticks
• 2 Anjous pears, cored and thinly sliced
• 3 Tbsp. dried cranberries
• 3 Tbsp. pepitas
• 1 cup prepared Whole Gain Gluten-Free Croutons (above)

Directions:

1. Remove the kale leaves from their stems. Thinly slice leaves. Place in a large bowl with apple sticks. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss until coated with dressing.
2. Divide kale mixture on four plates. Top salads with pear slices, cranberries, pepitas and croutons.