Introduction

This elegant tea sandwich board features two classic flavors: refreshing cucumber with herbed cream cheese and rich smoked salmon with capers. These easy-to-make finger sandwiches offer a perfect balance of taste and presentation, ideal for any gathering or afternoon tea.

Small open sandwiches are shown on a wooden board with a white marbled background. Each sandwich has three layers on a thick slice of brown seeded bread: a spread of white cream cheese with herbs, a round slice of green cucumber, and a folded piece of pink smoked salmon on top. The salmon is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and small yellow zest. A small dollop of white cottage cheese is placed on the salmon in the center of each sandwich, topped with more yellow zest and herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

White or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed
Butter, softened
Cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia brand recommended)
English cucumber, thinly sliced
Fresh dill, finely chopped
Lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
High-quality smoked salmon, thinly sliced
Capers, drained (optional)
Fresh chives, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Optional: horseradish or Dijon mustard mixed into cream cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Lay out sandwich bread slices on a clean surface. Using a serrated knife, carefully remove the crusts. Lightly spread softened butter on each slice to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with finely chopped dill, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Optionally add a teaspoon of horseradish or Dijon mustard.
Step 3: Slice English cucumber into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Lightly salt the slices and let them rest on paper towels for 5 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry before assembling.
Step 4: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly on each buttered bread slice. Arrange cucumber slices in a single layer on half of the slices. Top with remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down. Press gently to seal.
Step 5: Spread plain cream cheese on buttered bread slices. Layer smoked salmon slices over cream cheese, add a few capers and a sprinkle of minced chives. Cover with remaining bread slices, pressing gently.
Step 6: Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich into quarters or triangles. Arrange cucumber and smoked salmon sandwiches attractively on a serving board. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh sandwich bread and lightly butter to prevent sogginess.
Thinly slice cucumbers and rest on paper towels to remove excess moisture before assembling.
Prepare sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance, wrapped tightly and refrigerated.
Try swapping fresh dill for other herbs like tarragon or basil for different flavor profiles.
Use gluten-free or vegan bread and dairy-free cream cheese for dietary alternatives.

Storage

Store assembled sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before serving to enhance flavor and texture. Avoid storing longer to prevent sogginess, especially with cucumber sandwiches.

How to Serve

This image shows several pieces of thick, crusty bread slices topped with a layer of white creamy spread, followed by a round slice of fresh cucumber with a green peel. On top of the cucumber, there is a folded layer of bright orange smoked salmon, sprinkled with green dill herbs and small yellow zest pieces. Each piece is finished with a small dollop of white creamy cheese mixed with herbs right on the salmon. The bread is on a wooden board with some sprigs of fresh dill on the side, and in the background there are some cucumber slices on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them tightly wrapped and refrigerated. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

How can I prevent the cucumber sandwiches from becoming soggy?

Lightly salt the cucumber slices and place them on paper towels to draw out excess moisture before assembling. Also, spreading butter on the bread helps create a moisture barrier that keeps the bread from getting soggy.