Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and stir often until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove the roasted garlic from the pan and set aside for another use. (see Note)
Add the breadcrumbs to the oil and stir constantly until they turn a rich golden color, about 4 minutes. Stir in salt if adding. Immediately remove the breadcrumbs from the pan.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on salads, pasta dishes, vegetable side dishes, soups and so on.
Store remaining breadcrumbs in a jar in the refrigerator for up to five days.
