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Food and Recipes From Around the World: Traditional Cucumber Sandwiches

cucumber sandwiches - header

Warm weather has finally arrived and picnics aren’t complete without a traditional English treat. Cucumber sandwiches are usually served as an accompaniment to afternoon tea. However, they are so light, refreshing and easy to prepare that they translate well for a light snack.

The creation has British origins that have been altered and rebooted in America. Traditional cucumber sandwiches are a simple combination of buttered bread, thinly sliced cucumber and a dash of salt. Buckingham Palace serves a version of these at the Garden Party that adds a dash of fresh chopped mint. You might also see cream cheese used in place of butter, but purists will insist unsalted butter is the only authentic ingredient.

The bread is also a key player in a good sandwich. You must use a soft, springy bread. Typically, a white bread is used, but a wheat bread with a light density is also acceptable.

Cucumbers are so refreshing, but they can also turn sandwiches soggy in minutes. This recipe will help eliminate the abundance of moisture without robbing it flavor or that delicious texture.

cucumber sandwiches step by step

You Will Need:

Unsalted Butter
Cucumbers
Salt
White Springy Bread

To Create Traditional Cucumber Sandwiches:

  1. Remove waxy peel with sharp knife or peeler.
  2. Slice cucumber into paper thin slices.
  3. Lay slices on wire rack and sprinkle with salt.
  4. Let the cucumber drain on the rack for 10 minutes.
  5. Gently pat slices with a paper towel.
  6. Butter one side of each piece of bread.
  7. Layer cucumber slices across the buttered side of bread.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh cracked pepper to taste.
  9. Place the second buttered bread on top of the cucumber butter side down.
  10. Using a sharp knife, cut off crusts and slice sandwich into triangles.

Serve these delightful treats immediately and don’t be tempted to make them in advance. You can also add herbs to the butter for an extra zing. Dill, parsley and basil are a few favorite additions along with the Queen’s favorite – mint.

*Note that bread should be a bit thicker, but I had little helpers assisting me with these.