2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 loaf (8 to 10 ounces) rustic Italian bread, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine butter and olive oil in a large bowl. Add bread cubes, and toss until coated. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper; toss until evenly coated.
3. Spread bread in a single layer on an 11-by-17-inch baking sheet.
4. Bake until croutons are golden, about 15-20 minutes.

Makes 3-4 cups of croutons.