Name: Herbed Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: English
Ingredients: 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced; 8 slices soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: microgreens or watercress for garnish

Why You’ll Love Herbed Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe

These cucumber tea sandwiches strike the perfect balance between light and flavorful. The creamy spread is laced with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, making it tangy and aromatic, while the crisp cucumber slices provide a refreshing crunch. They’re easy to assemble, visually appealing, and ideal for serving at showers, picnics, or as an elegant appetizer for your next get-together. Plus, they’re vegetarian and customizable to suit various diets and flavor preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
8 slices soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: microgreens or watercress for garnish

Directions

In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, dill, chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Lay the bread slices out on a clean surface. Spread the herbed cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
Place the cucumber slices in a single layer over half of the bread slices.
Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
Gently press each sandwich, then slice into quarters—either in rectangles or triangles.
If desired, garnish with microgreens or a sprig of dill.
Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based yogurt for a vegan version.
Add Protein: Add thin slices of smoked salmon or turkey for a protein-packed twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the spread.
Different Herbs: Try parsley, tarragon, or mint instead of dill and chives for a different herb profile.
Open-Faced Style: Serve as open-faced sandwiches with cucumber and garnish on top.

Storage/Reheating

Cucumber tea sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed:

Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the herbed spread up to 2 days in advance.
Reheating: Not recommended, as these sandwiches are meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best for cucumber tea sandwiches?

Soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread without crusts is traditional, but any soft, thin-sliced bread works well.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, they can be assembled a few hours ahead. Keep them covered and chilled to maintain freshness.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

Pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels and spread the cream cheese mixture edge-to-edge to create a barrier against moisture.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for flavor and color, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch—use about one-third the amount.

What’s a good substitute for Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or plain cream cheese alone can be used as a substitute.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, but peel and remove the seeds for best texture and taste.

Are these sandwiches gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free bread to make them suitable for gluten-free diets.

How do I make these sandwiches more decorative?

Cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters or garnish with edible flowers or herbs.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, but choose a mild flavor like herb or garlic that complements the cucumber.

What can I serve with cucumber tea sandwiches?

Serve with scones, mini quiches, or a variety of other tea-time finger foods for a complete spread.

Conclusion

Herbed Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are the epitome of light, elegant snacking. With their crisp cucumber slices, creamy herb spread, and soft bread, they bring freshness and charm to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a formal tea party or simply craving something light and refreshing, these sandwiches are sure to delight.

Herbed Cucumber Tea Sandwiches