Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea (Print view)

Southern-style cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches perfect for elegant brunches or afternoon 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 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 white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (optional)

# Cooking Steps:

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 as 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 Ideas:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Classic Southern tradition that brings Kentucky Derby elegance to any gathering
  • Refreshing cucumber and herb flavor combination perfect for warm weather entertaining
  • Make-ahead friendly—the spread can be prepared a day in advance
  • Elegant presentation that impresses guests while remaining simple to execute
  • Vegetarian-friendly appetizer suitable for various dietary preferences
02 -
  • Make the spread up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate—the flavors actually improve overnight
  • Use a serrated knife for clean cuts without squashing the delicate sandwiches
  • Keep assembled sandwiches covered with a damp paper towel under plastic wrap to prevent drying
  • Grate the onion using the finest side of your grater to avoid large chunks
  • Remove crusts before assembling for easier, neater cutting and a more refined presentation
  • Work quickly when assembling to keep the bread fresh and soft
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