Croutons

INGREDIENTS 

5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon garlic paste from 1 medium clove (see note)

1/2 - 3/4 loaf ciabatta, cut into 3/4-inch cubes (about 5 cups) (see note)

1/4 cup water

1/4 teaspoon table salt

2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese

Combine 1 tablespoon oil and garlic paste in small bowl; set aside.  Place bread cubes in large bowl.  Sprinkle with water and salt.  Toss, squeezing gently so bread absorbs water.  Place remaining 4 tablespoons oil and soaked bread cubes in 12-inch nonstick skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until browned and crisp, 7 to 10 minutes.

Remove skillet from heat, push croutons to sides of skillet to clear center, add garlic/oil mixture to clearing and cook with residual heat of pan, 10 seconds.  Sprinkle with Parmesan; toss until garlic and Parmesan are evenly distributed. Transfer croutons to bowl; set aside.