For The Garlic Croutons:

• Heat an oven to 375°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Cut the baguette into bite-sized squares (rougly 1/2-inch cubes) and place on a rimmed baking sheet.

  Heat the olive oil and garlic in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the garlic sizzles and releases its fragrance, remove it from the oil. Carefully pour the oil over the croutons, season with a generous pinch of salt, and toss until coated.
• Bake the croutons for 5 minutes then remove from oven, stir, and return to oven. Bake in 5 minute increments until they are golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes total, depending on the size. Remove from oven and cool before using (if you leave them on the baking sheet, they will continue to get crisper and darker in color, FYI.)

  (The croutons can be made up to 4 days in advance. Store at room temperature in an airtight container unt