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Make-Ahead Tea Sandwiches

These make-ahead tea sandwiches feature layerings of flavorful ingredients such as herbed cream cheese, cucumber, and smoked salmon on soft bread. They are assembled in advance and kept chilled, resulting in tender, well-flavored bites with a delicate, elegant appearance. The sandwiches maintain freshness and texture when properly covered and refrigerated overnight.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 150kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 8

Equipment

  • Butter Knife
  • Small Spreading Spatula
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  • 1 cup herbed cream cheese softened
  • 1 medium cucumber thinly sliced
  • 4 slices white bread preferably crustless or lightly toasted
  • 4 slices smoked salmon finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice adds brightness to cream cheese
  • 1 pinch salt optional, enhances flavor
  • 1 pinch black pepper freshly ground, optional

Instructions

  • Spread the herbed cream cheese evenly over the slices of bread using a small spatula or butter knife, covering the surface completely for a smooth layer.
  • Place thin slices of cucumber on top of the cream cheese layer, arranging them slightly overlapping for a fresh, crisp look.
  • Lay the slices of smoked salmon over the cucumber, distributing them evenly for a delicate, flavor-packed layer.
  • Carefully top with another slice of bread, pressing lightly to set the layers in place.
  • Repeat the spreading of cream cheese, layering of cucumber and salmon, then top with the final bread slice to complete the sandwich.
  • Wrap the assembled sandwich tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring all sides are covered to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
  • Refrigerate the wrapped sandwiches for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow flavors to meld and the bread to soften slightly.
  • When ready to serve, unwrap the sandwiches and cut into small, elegant quarters or halves, revealing the colorful layers inside.
  • Arrange the cut sandwiches on a platter, optionally garnished with additional cucumber slices or herbs for a beautiful presentation.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the tender, flavorful bites that have been prepared ahead for effortless teatime indulgence.

Notes

For best results, ensure the bread is fresh and sliced thinly. You can customize fillings with additional herbs, avocado, or cheese. Keep sandwiches tightly wrapped and chilled until serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 220mg | Potassium: 50mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 1mg