3 thick slices firm white bread with crusts removed
3 tbsp. vegetable oil
3 tbsp. butter
Salt

Cut the bread into 1/2" squares. Heat butter and oil in a skillet and brown the cubes on all sides over moderate heat. Remove the croutons with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towel. Sprinkle with salt to taste. Yield: 1 cup.

Garlic Croutons: Chop 1 clove garlic very fine and add it to the butter and oil in the skillet before adding the bread cubes.