Everything But the Crouton Seasoning

A cozy, crunchy-inspired blend to brighten salads, soups & cottage cheese.

Sometimes we just don’t have the time (or energy) to bake a batch of homemade croutons… but that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on that nostalgic, savory flavor. That’s exactly why I adore this seasoning blend. It gives you all the crouton essence—herby, garlicky, salty, cozy—without ever turning on the oven.

For me, this mix is extra special because it reminds me of one of my favorite childhood snacks: cottage cheese with crunchy croutons on top. These days, I sprinkle this seasoning right over my cottage cheese for the same comforting flavor but with a nourishing, real-food twist. It also adds depth to salads, soups, dips, roasted veggies, and honestly… anything that needs a little more life.

Food should feel nourishing and joyful. This seasoning is one of my go-to ways to make everyday meals feel fun, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Blend

• Gives salads and soups instant restaurant-level flavor
• Adds cozy, nostalgic “crouton vibes” without the croutons
• Budget-friendly, pantry-staple ingredients
• Ready in under a minute
• Family-friendly and endlessly versatile

Looking for more easy, nourishing staples? Browse all of my real-food recipes here.

How to Use It

This blend shines on:

• Cottage cheese (my personal favorite)
• Salads of all kinds
• Tomato or chicken soups
• Roasted potatoes or veggies
• Garlic bread or sourdough
• Pasta salads
• Scrambled eggs or omelets

If you ever feel like your meals are falling a little flat, a pinch of this seasoning is often all they need.

Everything But the Crouton Seasoning Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a small bowl or jar.
2. Stir or shake until fully combined.
3. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
4. Sprinkle generously on salads, soups, cottage cheese, roasted veggies, or anywhere you want a cozy crunch-inspired flavor boost.

Tips & Variations

• Want a stronger crouton flavor? Add ½–1 teaspoon onion powder.
• Like it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Need it lower-sodium? Reduce salt by half and adjust to taste.
• Sticking to real-food simplicity? Use organic herbs and mineral-rich salt.

Download the PDF of this recipe here and print it yourself.