Cucumber Sandwich is a light, refreshing snack or appetizer typically made with thinly sliced cucumber, spread with a creamy filling, and served between two slices of bread. The creamy filling is often made from a blend of cream cheese, butter, and fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley, adding flavor and richness to the crisp cucumber. These sandwiches are simple to prepare yet elegant, making them perfect for tea parties, picnics, or light lunches.
I first made cucumber sandwiches when I wanted something light and refreshing, and they quickly became a favorite. The cool, crisp cucumber contrasts wonderfully with the creamy, herbed spread, creating a delicate yet satisfying bite. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can add smoked salmon or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein, swap the herbs based on your preferences, or use whole grain bread for a different twist. Whether served as a light snack or part of a larger spread, Cucumber Sandwiches are a timeless, elegant treat!
Perfect for:
- Afternoon tea
- Light snacks
- Picnics
- Bridal showers
- Garden parties
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Cucumber Sandwich will become your go-to snack:
- Light and Refreshing: The crisp cucumber adds a cool and fresh bite.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tangy cream cheese and savory herbs complement the cucumber’s mild taste.
- Elegant Appearance: Its simple yet refined presentation makes it a crowd-pleaser at any event.
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients, this sandwich comes together in no time.
- Great for Entertaining: Perfect for tea parties, showers, or as an appetizer.
- Customizable: You can add extra herbs or flavorings to suit your preferences.
- Quick and Convenient: A simple, no-fuss recipe that’s ready in just minutes.
- Low in Calories: A lighter option compared to other finger sandwiches.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Versatile: Ideal for various occasions, from casual picnics to fancy gatherings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 6g
Ingredients
For the Sandwich Filling:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich Bread:
- 8 slices white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed
- Butter (optional, for spreading)
Ingredient Highlights
- Cucumber: Provides a crisp and refreshing crunch to the sandwich.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the freshness of the cucumber.
- Dill: Offers a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with the cucumber.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the spread with a tangy hint.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sandwich Filling:
- Prepare the Cucumber: Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Place the slices on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Mix the Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on one slice of bread. Place the cucumber slices evenly over the spread. Top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.
- Trim the Crusts: Using a sharp knife, carefully trim the crusts off the bread for a neat presentation.
Serve:
- Slice and Serve: Slice the sandwich into quarters or fingers, and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Cucumber Sandwich:
- As an Afternoon Tea Snack: Pair with tea and scones for a traditional British tea experience.
- On a Picnic: Perfect for a light, refreshing snack during outdoor outings.
- At a Bridal Shower: An elegant addition to the spread at a bridal shower.
- For a Light Lunch: Serve alongside a light salad or soup.
- As a Party Appetizer: A crowd-pleaser for parties, offering a mix of flavor and elegance.
- With a Fruit Salad: Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced and colorful meal.
- For a Light Snack: Perfect when you want something light and refreshing.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra dill or parsley for added freshness.
- As Part of a Buffet: Add to a buffet or buffet-style brunch for variety.
- For a Cozy Gathering: Serve for a small gathering with friends or family.
Additional Tips
- Choose the Right Bread – Use soft, crustless white or whole wheat bread for the perfect base. You can also opt for rye or multigrain for a unique twist.
- Chill the Cucumbers – Chill the cucumbers before slicing for extra crispness and to prevent sogginess.
- Use Thin Slices – Slice the cucumbers very thinly to ensure each bite is delicate and not too bulky.
- Add Fresh Herbs – Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley for an added layer of flavor.
- Season the Cucumbers – Lightly season the cucumber slices with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors.
- Cream Cheese or Butter Spread – For extra richness, spread a thin layer of cream cheese, butter, or herbed butter on the bread.
- Avoid Overloading – Don’t overload with cucumbers; the sandwich should remain light and easy to eat, not stuffed.
- Keep It Cool – Serve cucumber sandwiches chilled, especially if you’re preparing them in advance. This helps them retain their crispness.
- Try Lemon Zest – Add a little lemon zest to the spread or cucumber for a bright, refreshing citrus note.
- Cut Into Finger Sandwiches – For a more elegant presentation, cut the sandwich into small triangles or fingers, perfect for tea parties or gatherings.
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Cream Cheese Cucumber Sandwiches: Combine fresh dill, parsley, and chives with cream cheese for a flavorful spread. Add thinly sliced cucumber, and layer it between soft bread.
- Cucumber & Hummus Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of hummus on whole grain bread and top with cucumber slices. Add a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick.
- Avocado Cucumber Sandwiches: Mash ripe avocado with lemon juice and salt, and spread it on whole wheat bread. Add thin cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.
- Cucumber & Smoked Salmon Sandwiches: Layer smoked salmon with cucumber slices and a touch of lemon-dill cream cheese on white bread for a luxurious twist.
- Cucumber & Goat Cheese Sandwiches: Spread goat cheese on bread, then layer with cucumber slices, a drizzle of honey, and fresh thyme for a creamy, sweet, and savory combo.
- Cucumber & Mint Yogurt Sandwiches: Mix Greek yogurt with fresh mint and lemon zest. Spread on bread, then top with cucumber slices for a cool, refreshing flavor.
- Spicy Cucumber Sandwiches: Add a thin layer of spicy sriracha mayo or horseradish sauce to your cucumber sandwich for an added heat.
- Cucumber & Egg Salad Sandwiches: Make a classic egg salad and spread it on bread, adding cucumber slices for extra crunch and freshness.
- Cucumber & Feta Cheese Sandwiches: Spread a bit of cream cheese, then layer with cucumber slices, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean touch.
- Cucumber & Pesto Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on bread, then add cucumber slices and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a herby, flavorful twist.
Special Equipment
- Sharp Knife – For slicing the cucumber and bread thinly and evenly.
- Mandoline Slicer – To achieve ultra-thin, uniform cucumber slices.
- Butter Knife – For spreading butter or cream cheese on the bread.
- Cutting Board – A clean surface for chopping and assembling the sandwiches.
- Sandwich Cutter – To cut the sandwiches into neat squares, triangles, or decorative shapes.
- Cucumber Peeler – For removing the skin of the cucumber, if desired.
- Pastry Brush – To evenly spread butter or other spreads on the bread.
- Sifter – If you’re using fine herbs or powdered ingredients to season the sandwiches.
- Serving Tray – For presenting the sandwiches in an elegant, neat arrangement.
- Food Processor – If you’re making a spread or mixture from the cucumber or other ingredients.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use whole grain, rye, or even gluten-free bread for a different flavor or dietary preference. - Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made 1-2 hours in advance. Just be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent the bread from drying out. - How long do the sandwiches last?
These sandwiches are best served immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 hours before they start to lose their freshness. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add thin slices of tomato, radish, or even sprouts for additional texture and flavor. - How can I make the filling more creamy?
If you want a creamier texture, add a little more mayonnaise or use a combination of cream cheese and sour cream.
Conclusion
A classic cucumber sandwich is a refreshing, light, and elegant treat that’s perfect for tea parties, picnics, or as a simple snack. The sandwich features thinly sliced cucumber layered on soft, buttered bread, with a hint of fresh herbs and seasoning. It’s simple, yet full of flavor, and the crisp cucumber pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of butter or cream cheese.
This recipe can be customized by adding fresh dill, chives, or a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. You can also swap the butter for cream cheese or herbed spread for a richer taste. Use white bread, whole wheat, or even a crustless option for a more refined presentation.
I can’t wait to see how your Cucumber Sandwiches turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your elegant creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!