Cucumber Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep cucumber sandwiches from getting soggy? ›

To avoid soggy cucumber sandwiches with little added prep time or effort, all you need to do is give them a quick salt. The reason this simple method works is due to osmosis, which draws out the veggie's excess water.

Cucumber sandwiches are best made just 1 to 3 hours ahead of time, but they can be made up to a day in advance. But if you decide to make them ahead, you run the risk of them turning mushy.

This creamy, crunchy cucumber sandwich recipe strikes a lovely balance between decadent and light. The cream cheese-yogurt spread complements the crisp refreshing cucumber, while the hearty flavor and texture of the whole-wheat bread hold everything together.

Cucumber sandwich are a British invention, probably first created in colonial India during the Victorian period, but became most popular during the succeeding Edwardian period. They were an element of the 'Afternoon Tea' as opposed to the heavier "High Tea".

Cream Cheese + Cucumbers on Whole-Wheat Bread: A classic combination is only made better by the addition of fresh herbs, such as mint or dill. Cream Cheese + Salami on Sourdough: A twist on a ham and cheese sandwich that any kid can appreciate. Add a schmear of spicy mustard for some heat and tang, if you like.

White bread is typically used in tea sandwiches, but I love using a really interesting pumpernickel or rye to add a bit more of an interesting flavor. Making ahead of time. As I mentioned, these are great for parties since you can make them ahead of time before your guests arrive.

Recipe tips and variations

The cream cheese spread will help prevent the bread from getting soggy. Make ahead: The cream cheese filling can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature for 30 minutes for easiest spreading.

If you're hosting a large event, sandwiches are great because they can be made the day before the event.

Most finger sandwiches can be prepared up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an air tight container. A great tip is to cover the sandwiches with a sheet of wax paper and then a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Uncover the sandwiches and place on serving platters just before serving.

How Many Finger Sandwiches Per Person. Plan for four small sandwiches per person when serving as a main course for lunch. If you are serving them as part of an appetizer spread for a party, two per person will suffice.

Why do Brits eat cucumber sandwiches? ›

Cucumber Sandwiches Appeared During The Victorian Era

When British army officers sought sanctuary in tea houses to avoid the sweltering heat, they were served cucumber sandwiches, which kept them hydrated and cool due to the veggie's high water content.

By crushing our cucumber before we cut it, we produce flavors that un-smashed cukes can't. When you crush the cells in a vegetable, as opposed to cutting cleanly through them, certain compounds get mixed together, which can result in a significantly different flavor.

Thanks for such an easy healthy lunch! Delicious sandwich! As a snack I often eat cucumber and sharp cheddar slices together as a snack but never thought of making a sandwich out of it. The tomato was an excellent addition.

Cut Cheddar cheese into thin slices and place on of the slices until thoroughly covered. Then place the thin slices of cucumbers on top of the cheese and add salt and pepper on top of the cucumbers only. Place the second (buttered or mayonnaised) slice on top of the cucumbers and cut in half.

Cucumber Sandwiches Appeared During The Victorian Era

It was during this Victorian era that Britain turned cucumber sandwiches into a popular miniature meal eaten by members of the upper class. According to The Telegraph, the "lower classes preferred not to waste energy on something with so little protein."