Description
Cool, crisp cucumber layered over soft bread with a dill-kissed cream cheese spread, these elegant no-cook tea sandwiches are refreshing, light, and perfect for afternoon tea or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices soft white sandwich bread, crust-on to start
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft (optional barrier layer)
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber very thin, scatter with 1/4 teaspoon salt, and let stand 10 minutes. Pat the slices completely dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, dill, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Lay out the bread. If using butter, spread a thin layer on one side of each slice to act as a moisture barrier.
- Spread the dill cream cheese evenly over each buttered side. Arrange cucumber slices in a single, slightly overlapping layer over half of the bread slices.
- Top with the remaining bread, gently press to set, then trim all crusts for clean edges.
- Cut each sandwich into 2 to 3 neat fingers or triangles. Chill 10 to 20 minutes for the cleanest cuts and the most refreshing bite.
- Plate on a chilled platter and serve immediately or keep lightly covered until serving.
Notes
- Note: Drying the cucumbers well prevents soggy bread and keeps cuts sharp.
- Mint or chives can replace dill for a different herbal profile.
- Chill the bread briefly for easier spreading and cleaner slices.
- Assemble up to 3 hours ahead, cover with a barely damp towel, then plastic wrap, and refrigerate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 finger sandwiches
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cucumber tea sandwiches, afternoon tea, finger sandwiches, dill cream cheese, English cucumber, no cook appetizer