Croutons were first eaten in France around 1000 A.D. These pieces of stale bread were placed in a bowl, and soup was poured over them to soften them. The definition of “crouton” is crust in French, which is a suitable name.
Croutons are an over-hyped part of a salad that does not truly have to be there. Why would you want to eat stale bread that makes the salad drier? Moreover, you wouldn’t have to struggle with repeatedly stabbing croutons with your fork to eat them. In an interview with Agoura sophomore Ani Butler, she stated, “I think that there is only a specific type of crouton that’s good, and they’re hard to find. I also think that croutons shouldn’t be put in salads because you can’t stab them with a fork, so they end up at the bottom of the bowl, all soggy. Overall, I rate the average crouton a 3/10.” When asked why she thinks the more significant population loves croutons, she explained, “I think it’s because most people don’t like the idea of salad, and croutons are the closest thing to a chip or something less healthy. So it’s what they look forward to instead of just a bunch of vegetables.” For many people, eating salads is the epitome of a healthy meal. However, most are unaware of how many calories this stale bread contains. Most by themselves are around 120 calories, and with seasoning, around 180. Though this alone should not put you away from eating them, they’re not as healthy as one might think.
The inferior decision is to use croutons when you could have a delicious and soft piece of bread on the side. A baguette, for example, is the perfect side to accompany a salad. For instance, bread is typically brought out at restaurants and stays at the table as appetizer salads come out, and the combination is unmatched. You give yourself a scrumptious side dish by using bread on the side rather than on top in a rugged, stale form. Every good meal has sides, providing different flavors that all combine to create a unique meal. Additionally, the bread does not have to remain untouched. You can do many things with it, such as making garlic bread, dipping it in oil and vinegar, butter, or any other spread to better go with the flavor profile of the salad. Not only is it more likable for your teeth and body, but it is a delicious addition to your meal.
On the other hand, croutons are a delicacy enjoyed by people all over America. Healthy salads are boring, flavorless, and unsatisfying. You must add dressing, cheese, and, most importantly, croutons to make it worth eating. Regarding health, the second you make a salad taste good, you give up the health benefits and low calories. That is a sacrifice we willingly make every day with various meals. Your day is complete when you get the perfect ratio of croutons to salad. The best kinds of salads have a mixture of crunchy lettuce, crunchy vegetables, and crunchy croutons. If your salad lacks the crunchiness you desire, add some croutons! Another reason croutons belong on salads is because they provide delicious flavors that some lack. In many cases, croutons either provide the flavor in the salad or add more to the flavors already there. Croutons are so delectable that some people even eat them as snacks.
In the end, the choice of whether to include croutons in your salad is entirely up to you. Some may find them a delightful addition, while others may prefer to pair their salad with a side of bread. I encourage you to try both options and decide for yourself which one enhances your salad experience.
