Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea

Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are a beloved Southern classic, cherished for their refreshing blend of cucumber and cream cheese. Traditionally served during the Kentucky Derby, these elegant little sandwiches bring a touch of sophistication to any brunch or afternoon gathering. Their light, creamy flavor and delicate texture make them the perfect appetizer or snack that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality.

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These sandwiches combine simple, fresh ingredients with a touch of Southern charm. The Benedictine spread, made from cream cheese, fresh dill, and chives, complements the crisp cucumber for a cool, savory bite. Assembling these sandwiches is quick and easy, making them an ideal choice for both casual and formal occasions.

Ingredients

• Spread:
• 1 large English cucumber, peeled and seeded
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
• 1 tablespoon grated onion
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2–3 drops green food coloring (optional, for traditional color)
• Sandwich Assembly:
• 12 slices very fresh white sandwich bread, crusts removed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (optional, for spreading)

Instructions

1. Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, grated onion, salt, and white pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Stir in the drained cucumber and mix until well blended. Add green food coloring if desired and mix until the color is uniform.

4. If using, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.

5. Spread a generous layer of the Benedictine mixture on half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

6. Gently press and trim crusts if needed. Cut each sandwich into quarters (rectangles or triangles).

7. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Grating and thoroughly draining the cucumber is essential to keep the sandwiches from becoming soggy. Using very fresh bread helps maintain the delicate texture, and lightly buttering the bread can add moisture protection and richness. The spread can be prepared a day ahead to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For variation, try using whole wheat or rye sandwich bread instead of white bread to add a different flavor profile. You can omit the green food coloring if you prefer a more natural appearance or garnish the sandwiches with thin cucumber slices or fresh dill sprigs for extra flair and taste.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these tea sandwiches on a decorative platter for elegant afternoon teas, brunches, or Derby parties. Pair them with refreshing iced tea or cucumber-infused water to complement their cool, fresh flavor. They also work beautifully alongside other Southern-inspired appetizer spreads.

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Enjoy these Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea Sandwiches as a delightful taste of Southern tradition, perfectly suited for any occasion that calls for light, elegant finger foods.