Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic tea sandwich that transports you to a world of fresh flavors and creamy goodness. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crustless bite-sized creation, where cool cucumbers meet a rich, creamy spread bursting with herbs and spices. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that dances on your palate, making it the star of any afternoon tea or garden party.
Picture this: it’s a sunny day, the birds are chirping, and you’re hosting friends for an elegant tea party. As you serve these Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches, laughter fills the air while everyone compliments your culinary skills. This recipe not only impresses but also carries a nostalgic charm, reminding us of simpler times spent with loved ones over delicious bites. Get ready to embark on this flavor journey that will leave you craving more! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These sandwiches are quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings
- They balance creamy and crunchy textures with refreshing cucumber slices
- Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any table setting
- Versatile enough to be served at brunch, lunch, or as a light snack anytime!
Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a rich, smooth texture that spreads easily.
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Mayonnaise: Choose a good quality mayonnaise for added creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
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Dill: Fresh dill brings an aromatic punch that complements the cucumbers beautifully.
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Green Onions: Chopped finely, they add a mild onion flavor and lovely crunch.
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Cucumbers: Pick firm cucumbers for slicing; their coolness is key in this delightful sandwich.
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White Bread: Use soft white bread without crusts for that classic tea sandwich appeal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Spread
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Add dill and finely chopped green onions, stirring well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers
Using a sharp knife or mandolin slicer, cut cucumbers into thin slices. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick—this ensures they fit perfectly between your bread slices.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture onto one side of each slice of bread. Top half of the slices with cucumber slices, covering them nicely.
Step 4: Close It Up
Place remaining slices of bread on top of the cucumber-topped ones, spread side down. Gently press down to seal these delightful sandwiches together.
Step 5: Trim and Cut
Using a sharp knife, trim off the crusts to create neat edges. Then cut each sandwich into quarters or triangles—perfect bite-sized pieces!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your beautifully cut sandwiches on a platter and serve immediately alongside your favorite tea or beverage. Watch as guests rave about your culinary prowess!
Now that you’ve mastered these Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches, relish in the joy they bring at any gathering or cozy afternoon at home!
You Must Know
- Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are the ultimate party pleaser
- These delightful treats combine the creaminess of a spread with the crunch of cucumber, making them perfect for any gathering
- Easy to whip up, they add a touch of elegance to your tea time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches efficiently, start by preparing your spread first. While it chills in the fridge, slice your cucumbers and bread. This multitasking will save you time and ensure everything is fresh and ready to assemble.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these sandwiches by adding fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra flavor kick. You can also swap out the cream cheese for a vegan alternative or incorporate smoked salmon for a twist that’s sure to impress.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you need to reheat them, avoid microwaving; instead, let them come to room temperature before serving again so they maintain their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading
- Slice cucumbers thinly to avoid sogginess and use fresh bread for optimal texture and flavor
- Consider chilling your sandwiches before serving for a refreshing bite
I remember hosting a tea party where I served these Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches. My friends devoured them within minutes, asking for the recipe as if it were some kind of secret family heirloom!
FAQs:
What are Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches?
Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are delightful, bite-sized sandwiches that feature a creamy cucumber spread on soft bread. They originate from the culinary traditions of the Southern United States. The sandwich’s filling typically combines finely grated cucumbers, cream cheese, and various seasonings. These sandwiches are perfect for afternoon tea or elegant gatherings due to their light and refreshing flavor. They provide a wonderful blend of textures and tastes, making them a favorite choice for any tea party.
How do you make the filling for Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches?
To create the filling for Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches, start by grating fresh cucumbers and draining excess moisture. This prevents sogginess in your sandwiches. Combine the drained cucumbers with cream cheese, a touch of mayonnaise, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and dill. Blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy for an irresistible filling. Spread this mixture generously onto your choice of bread—white or whole grain works well—and cut into triangles or squares for serving.
Can I prepare Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches in advance! To maintain freshness, assemble the sandwiches a few hours before your event but keep them refrigerated until serving. If you need to prepare them even earlier, consider storing the cucumber filling separately in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwiches closer to serving time to avoid sogginess. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors without worrying about compromising their texture. For more inspiration, check out this great side dishes recipe.
What variations can I try with Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches?
There are several delicious variations you can try with Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches! For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic touch. You might also experiment with different spreads such as avocado or hummus for added flavor and nutrition. To enhance presentation, garnish each sandwich with edible flowers or microgreens. These creative adaptations will elevate your tea sandwiches while keeping their essence intact.
Conclusion for Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches:
In summary, Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are a delightful treat that combines refreshing cucumber flavors with creamy richness. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, these sandwiches are perfect for tea parties or casual gatherings alike. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences by adding herbs or alternative spreads. Preparing them in advance ensures that you can enjoy every moment of your gathering while still serving a beautifully presented dish that guests will love.
Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings (16 bite-sized pieces) 1x
Description
Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are a delightful and elegant treat, perfect for any tea party or casual gathering. These bite-sized sandwiches feature a creamy, herb-infused cucumber filling nestled between soft, crustless white bread. With their refreshing flavors and charming presentation, they are sure to impress your guests while evoking a sense of Southern nostalgia. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, these sandwiches are an essential addition to your entertaining repertoire.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 2 medium cucumbers (sliced thin)
- 8 slices white bread (crustless)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in dill and green onions.
- Slice cucumbers into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick).
- Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture onto one side of each slice of bread.
- Place cucumber slices on half of the bread slices, covering generously.
- Top with remaining bread slices, spread side down, and gently press together.
- Trim crusts and cut sandwiches into quarters or triangles.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately with your favorite beverage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or mint to the filling. Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative if desired. Serve alongside edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant presentation.