To quickly toast pecans, just add them to a hot, dry heavy skillet over medium/high heat and cook for about 5-6 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally, keep an eye on them, they burn quickly!
To make home-made croutons, cut or tear a whole wheat or french baguette into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt & pepper, place on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.