Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 16 slices of white bread, crusts removed
Special equipment needed:
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, fresh dill, fresh chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Lay out the slices of white bread on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice of bread.
3. Layer the thinly sliced cucumbers on top of the cream cheese mixture on 8 of the slices of bread.
4. Top each cucumber-covered slice of bread with one of the remaining slices of bread, cream cheese side down.
5. Use a bread knife to cut each sandwich into four small squares or triangles.
6. Brush the tops of each sandwich with a small amount of water to prevent the bread from drying out.
7. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: N/A
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- Makes 32 small tea sandwiches
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 70
- Total fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh dill and chives can be substituted with dried herbs.
- White bread can be substituted with whole wheat bread or gluten-free bread.
Variations:
- Add thinly sliced radishes or red onions to the sandwiches for added flavor and crunch.
- Use flavored cream cheese, such as garlic or herb, for a different taste.
- Substitute the cucumber with thinly sliced apples or pears for a sweet twist.
Tips and tricks:
- To prevent the bread from getting soggy, pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel before layering them on the cream cheese.
- For a fancier presentation, use a cookie cutter to cut the sandwiches into fun shapes.
- These sandwiches can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Storage instructions:
- Store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Reheating instructions:
- N/A
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the sandwiches on a tiered serving tray for an elegant presentation.
- Serve the sandwiches on a bed of lettuce or fresh herbs for added color and texture.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or iced tea for a classic tea party combination.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad or vegetable crudité can be served alongside the sandwiches for a light and refreshing meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cream cheese mixture is too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator until ready to serve to prevent bacteria growth.
Food history:
- Tea sandwiches have been a popular snack in England since the 19th century and are often served at afternoon tea parties.
Flavor profiles:
- These sandwiches have a creamy and herbaceous flavor with a refreshing crunch from the cucumber.
Serving suggestions:
- These sandwiches are perfect for a tea party, bridal shower, or any other elegant gathering.
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