4 Reuses for Stale Bread

Just yesterday when you bought that French bread it was still warm as you pulled through its crusty outer layer and found a soft pillow of freshly baked goodness inside. But today, not so much. That bread has gone from enticing to useless in just a day's time. Or has it? Here are four quick reuses for that day old bread:

1. Sometimes you can reheat bread to its former glory. If your loaf is just a tad dry throw it in the oven for one last go around.

2. Make a panzanella soup. This is an Italian favorite that's incredibly easy to make and so delicious. Roughly chop up the bread along with a bunch of local tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and basil. Saute the bread in organic olive oil for a few minutes. In a separate bowl toss all the veggies in homemade vinaigrette. Combine the two and let the salad sit for a few hours. Season will salt and pepper.

3. Make croutons. Cut the croutons into two-inch chunks. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning and bake until crispy.

4. If the bread is round, turn it into a bread bowl to be served with your favorite soup like a French onion or tomato basil. Bread bowls are also a great choice for serving up your favorite dips. They're an excellent way to add elegant presentation to your favorite recipes.

Salivating over sustainable eats? Learn how to make your own with help from Emeril Lagasse in Planet Green TV's organic cooking show, Emeril Green.