Hey there, folks! Austin here from Beyond the Bayou Blog. Today, we’re going classic with a good Cucumber Sandwich. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “A cucumber sandwich? That’s it?” But just hold your horses!
Growing up in the South, these simple little sandwiches were a staple at every church potluck, baby shower, and grandma’s bridge club. There’s just something so refreshing and nostalgic about that cool cucumber crunch against the creamy spread. It takes me right back to those hot Louisiana summers on my aunt’s porch, fanning myself with a paper plate.
While this recipe may look unassuming, it’s all about nailing those key flavors – the dill, the tangy cream cheese, the delicate cucumber. Get those right, and you’ve got pure sandwich sorcery on your hands. The best part? These little snacks come together in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Serve them with your favorite drinks and enjoy your evening break.
So let’s whip up a batch and treat ourselves to a timeless Southern delicacy, shall we? Your taste buds (and grandma) will thank me later!
Overview: How To Make Cucumber Sandwich?
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful snack or light meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
To make these sandwiches, start by mixing softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth, then add in fresh dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful spread. Thinly slice an English cucumber and layer it onto half of the bread slices spread with the cream cheese mixture. Add extra herbs if you like for an added burst of freshness.
Top with the remaining bread slices, cut into bite-sized pieces, and you’re ready to serve! These sandwiches are great for tea parties, picnics, or any time you want a light and tasty treat. Enjoy the creamy, herby goodness with each bite!
Cucumber Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
- Hand Mixer
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tsp fresh chives chopped
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 long English cucumber thinly sliced
- 1 loaf sliced bread crusts removed
Instructions
- Mix Cream Cheese Mixture: Using a hand mixer, blend softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth in a small bowl. Add chopped dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread on Bread: Spread the cream cheese mixture onto one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer with Cucumbers: Thinly slice the English cucumber and layer it over half of the bread slices. Add extra herbs if desired.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Top with the remaining bread slices. Optionally, remove crusts and cut each sandwich into 3 pieces.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately as tea sandwiches or cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition
Tips that Will Surely Help!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs make a big difference. Experiment with mint, watercress, or even a bit of lemon zest to enhance the flavor.
- Timing is Key: Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the bread from getting too moist. If you need to prepare in advance, keep components separate and assemble just before serving.
- Prevent Sogginess: If you must assemble ahead of time, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 15 minutes. Blot them dry before layering to draw out excess moisture.
- Texture Matters: Use a sharp knife for slicing the cucumbers thinly and evenly. This ensures each bite is perfectly balanced.
- Keep it Fresh: Store any prepared sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but try to serve within a few hours for the best texture and flavor
What to Serve with Cucumber Sandwich?
Variations You Can Opt!
- Mint Freshness: Mint brings a refreshing summer vibe to your sandwiches.
- Peppery Kick: Watercress adds a sharp, peppery flavor that complements the creaminess.
- Citrus Zing: A few drops of lemon juice or zest can add a citrusy brightness to your sandwiches.
- Herb Options: Dill is a classic choice, while flat-leaf parsley or chives also work well for added flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Consider using dairy-free butter for vegan-friendly sandwiches.
- Vegetable Variation: If you’re out of cucumbers, radishes can be a tasty substitute for a different twist.
What Kind of Cucumbers Are Best?
For the best cucumber sandwiches, choose English cucumbers. They have smaller, softer seeds and a thinner, softer skin, making them ideal. You can leave the skin on, peel it entirely, or partially peel for a colorful variation. If using regular cucumbers, peeling is recommended to avoid the tough skin contrasting with the sandwich’s delicate texture.
How to Keep Cucumber Sandwiches from Getting Soggy?
- Spread Cream Cheese Evenly: Ensure the cream cheese covers the bread completely. It acts as a barrier to prevent moisture from the cucumbers making the bread soggy.
- Serve Fresh: Assemble and serve your sandwiches within 1-2 hours to keep them fresh and flavorful.
- Make Ahead with Care: If making ahead, freeze the bread, prepare the cream cheese spread, and slice the cucumbers separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prevent Sogginess: If you must assemble ahead, lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Blot them dry before adding to the sandwiches. This method may slightly soften the cucumbers but will help keep the sandwiches crisp.