At times, it is the most basic of recipes that turn out to be the best. A cucumber sandwich is a perfect example. Simple, refreshing, and very easy to put together, they are a great choice for breakfast, evening snacks, picnics, or a traditional high tea. I, for one, am a fan of recipes that don’t require a lot of preparation but still feel very special when served. Cucumber sandwiches are just that!
In the vein of the classic British tea time tradition, this sandwich has gone global. It’s a mix of crisp cucumber slices, soft bread, and a creamy spread, which makes it at once delicious and refreshing.
Ingredients You Will Need
One of the great things about this recipe is that it only requires a few easy-to-get ingredients.
- Fresh green cucumber, also English or Persian
- White or whole-wheat bread
- Cream cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh dill or dried herbs
- Chopped chives
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper and salt
You may use butter instead of cream cheese if you prefer a more traditional taste. However, cream cheese mixed with a little mayonnaise creates a smooth filling that holds the cucumber slices in.
How to Prepare Cucumber Sandwiches
Start by washing the cucumber well and slicing it into thin, even pieces. Also, do not make the slices thick, as they may dominate the soft bread.
First, mix in a bowl the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Take out two slices of bread and spread the prepared mixture over one side of each. Put in cucumber slices and top with the other slice of bread. Press down a little to keep the filling in place.
For a traditional tea time presentation, remove the bread from the crusts and cut the sandwich into small rectangles, squares, or triangles. Serve right away for best taste and texture.
Selecting the Best Bread and Cucumbers
The choice of ingredients does make a difference. In the case of English and Persian cucumbers, they are a great choice as they usually have fewer seeds and less excess moisture, which in turn means the bread will not become soggy.
Soft and fluffy bread with a large surface area works best. White bread has a classic taste, and whole wheat is a great option for those who prefer a heartier choice.
Some Tips for Better Taste and Storage
A few tips to take your sandwich game up a notch. Always slice the cucumber paper thin and pat it dry with a paper towel before assembly. This removes excess moisture, which in turn keeps the bread fresh.
Although these sandwiches are best made up to 2 hours in advance, they do taste best when served just prepared. For a picnic or gathering, prepare them in advance and cover with cling film until it is time to serve.
Conclusion
Cucumber sandwiches are proof that great-tasting food doesn’t always have to be prepared with complex ingredients or for hours in the kitchen. For a quick snack for the family or a beautiful high tea for guests, this is a great option. Out of a very simple combination of a creamy spread, crunchy cucumber, and soft bread comes a classic that is always a hit.
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