Cucumber Sandwiches for Tea
There’s something timeless and elegant about **Cucumber Sandwiches**. A staple at afternoon tea parties, bridal showers, and garden gatherings, these dainty sandwiches are **light, refreshing, and incredibly simple to make**. With soft bread, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy, herbed spread, they bring a perfect balance of flavors and textures to any tea-time spread.
Equipment
- - Sharp knife or mandoline
- - Cutting board
- - Mixing bowl
- - Butter knife or spatula
Ingredients
- #### **For the Sandwiches**
- - 1 large English cucumber thinly sliced
- - 8 slices soft white or whole wheat bread
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- #### **For the Cream Cheese Spread**
- - 4 oz cream cheese softened
- - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- - 1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill)
- - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- #### **Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber**
- Thinly slice the cucumber using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for **5 minutes** to remove excess moisture.
- Pat dry with a paper towel.
- #### **Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Spread**
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- #### **Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches**
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture on each slice of bread.
- Arrange cucumber slices evenly over half of the slices.
- Top with the remaining bread slices and gently press down.
- #### **Step 4: Trim & Serve**
- Cut off crusts for a traditional tea sandwich look.
- Slice into triangles or rectangles.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to **2 hours** before serving.