Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea (Printable)

Refreshing cucumber and cream cheese spread on soft bread makes elegant tea sandwiches perfect for gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Spread

01 - 1 large English cucumber, peeled and seeded
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon onion, grated
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
09 - 2-3 drops green food coloring, optional

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 12 slices fresh white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, grated onion, salt, and white pepper. Mix until smooth.
03 - Stir in the drained cucumber and mix until well blended. Add green food coloring if desired and mix until the color is uniform.
04 - If using, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.
05 - Spread a generous layer of the Benedictine mixture on half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
06 - Gently press and trim crusts if needed. Cut each sandwich into quarters using rectangles or triangles.
07 - Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Classic Southern flavor perfect for Kentucky Derby traditions.
  • Light and refreshing cucumber and cream cheese spread.
  • Quick and easy preparation with no cooking required.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and elegant presentation.
02 -
  • Use a clean kitchen towel or fine mesh strainer to remove excess moisture from the cucumber to keep sandwiches from becoming soggy.
  • Softened cream cheese blends more easily for a smoother spread.
  • Butter bread slices lightly if you plan to prepare sandwiches in advance to prevent sogginess.
  • Trim crusts carefully for a tidy, elegant presentation.
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