Description
These Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are a refreshing, flavorful treat perfect for any tea party or gathering. With a creamy, herbed spread made from cucumber, dill, green onions, and cream cheese, these sandwiches are light, delicious, and sure to impress
Ingredients
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2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup minced green onions (both onion and greens)
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1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and shredded
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4 tablespoons chopped dill
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon sour cream
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the cucumber: Peel the cucumber and cut it in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, carefully scrape out all the seeds. Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh strainer, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let it drain for 15 minutes.
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Extract cucumber moisture: After draining, place the cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This crucial step prevents soggy sandwiches later.
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Prepare the green onions: Trim the root ends and any wilted green parts from the onions. Mince them very finely, keeping both white and green parts.
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Mix the base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.
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Combine ingredients: Add the drained cucumber, minced green onions, chopped dill, mayonnaise, and sour cream to the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Season to taste: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go. The spread should be well-seasoned but not salty.
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Chill the spread: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare bread: Choose your preferred bread (typically white bread for tea sandwiches). Trim the crusts if desired.
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Assemble sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of Benedictine on one slice of bread, then top with another slice. Press gently to adhere.
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Cut and serve: Cut sandwiches into triangles, fingers, or squares. Garnish with dill sprigs if desired.
Notes
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The spread can be made up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor.
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This recipe works best with a light, soft bread like white sandwich bread.
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Ensure that the cucumber is thoroughly drained to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: ~160 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg