Baked Croutons

Heat the oven to 350°F. In a small skillet, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic clove, mashing and breaking it up slightly with a wooden spoon, and raise the heat to medium. Cook until the garlic just begins to brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and discard the garlic clove. Put the bread cubes in a mixing bowl, drizzle the melted butter or oil all over, sprinkle on the salt, and toss to distribute evenly. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until golden all the way around, turning once or twice with a spatula, 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool.