Cucumber Sandwiches

Ingredients

• 113 g (4 oz), at room temperaturecream cheese
• 60 ml (4 tablespoons)mayonnaise
• 7.5 ml (1½ teaspoons)dill, dried or fresh
• 15 ml (3 teaspoons), about the juice of 1 lemonlemon juice
• 10 slicesgood-quality white bread, or bread of your choice
• 3mini seedless cucumbers, sliced
• to tastesalt and pepper
• to servefresh chives

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the spread

   In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill and lemon juice.

2. 2

   Assemble sandwiches

   Cut the crusts off the bread and spread both sides with the cream cheese mixture. Arrange the cucumber in a single layer on one slice of bread. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and chives, then top with a second slice.

What are cucumber sandwiches?

Cucumber sandwiches are simple sandwiches made with sliced cucumber and a soft spread. They are especially associated with British afternoon tea, though versions appear in many home kitchens.

This version combines cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill and lemon for a tangy, herb-flecked filling. The recipe is tagged as Asian, but cucumber sandwiches themselves are not specific to one Asian cuisine.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 370 calories, 8g protein, 34g carbs, 23g fat.

The bread supplies most of the carbohydrates, while the cream cheese and mayonnaise contribute much of the fat; the cream cheese and bread provide some protein. Pair a sandwich serving with a salad or vegetable soup for a more balanced plate.

Why the cream cheese spread works

Cream cheese: letting it reach room temperature makes it easier to stir smoothly with the other ingredients.

Lemon and dill: lemon adds a bright note, while dill brings a fresh, savoury flavour that suits cucumber.

Layering for a crisp bite

Cucumber layer: arrange the slices in a single layer so they sit evenly and the sandwich is easier to bite through.

Seasoning: add salt and pepper over the cucumber, then finish with chives before closing the sandwich.

Choosing the bread

White bread gives these sandwiches a soft, delicate texture, while the recipe also works with another bread you enjoy. Removing the crusts makes the pieces neat and tender.

Spread: cover both sides of the bread with the cream cheese mixture as directed, taking care not to tear soft slices.

A quick recipe to assemble

The stated total time is 10 minutes, and the method is mostly mixing and assembly. Have the sliced cucumber and chives ready before spreading the bread to keep the process straightforward.

The recipe uses 10 slices of bread, enough to make five two-slice sandwiches; servings are listed as four.

What to serve alongside

Serve the sandwiches on their own for a light bite, or pair them with a bowl of soup or a simple salad for a more substantial lunch.

For afternoon tea, they sit well alongside other small savoury bites and a pot of tea.

Recipe notes & tips

• Bring the cream cheese to room temperature so it blends more easily.
• Slice the cucumbers evenly for a consistent layer in each sandwich.
• Use a gentle hand when spreading the mixture on soft bread.
• Season the cucumber layer before adding the top slice.
• Cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces for serving with afternoon tea.

Variations

• Use fresh dill: chop it finely before stirring it into the spread.
• Try wholemeal bread: swap in your preferred bread for a nuttier flavour.
• Add extra chives: scatter more over the cucumber for a stronger onion note.
• Make it peppery: add a little extra black pepper to the filling.
• Change the herbs: use another soft herb in place of dill to suit your taste.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Cold cream cheese: it can be difficult to mix smoothly; let it soften at room temperature first.
• Uneven cucumber slices: they can make the filling lumpy; slice them to a similar thickness.
• Too much pressure: soft bread may tear under the spread; apply it gently.
• Skipping seasoning: cucumber can taste bland without it; season the layer with salt and pepper.
• Making them too far ahead: the bread may become damp; assemble close to serving.

How to store

These sandwiches are best eaten soon after assembling, while the bread is soft and the cucumber crisp. If needed, refrigerate covered and eat within a day; serve chilled rather than reheating.

Frequently asked questions