Kentucky Derby Benedictine Sandwiches (Printable)

Crisp cucumber blended with cream cheese and herbs on fresh white bread for a light Southern snack.

# Ingredient List:

→ Spread

01 - 1 large English cucumber, peeled and seeded
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon onion, grated
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
09 - 2-3 drops green food coloring, optional

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 12 slices fresh white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, optional

# Directions:

01 - Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, grated onion, salt, and white pepper. Mix until smooth.
03 - Stir in the drained cucumber and mix until well blended. Add green food coloring if desired and mix until the color is uniform.
04 - If using, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.
05 - Spread a generous layer of the Benedictine mixture on half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
06 - Gently press and trim crusts if needed. Cut each sandwich into quarters using rectangles or triangles.
07 - Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with no cooking required
  • Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
  • Light and refreshing with crisp cucumber and fresh herbs
  • Classic Southern tradition perfect for Derby parties and elegant gatherings
  • Versatile appetizer suitable for brunches, teas, and receptions
02 -
  • English cucumbers have fewer seeds and less water content than regular cucumbers
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier mixing
  • Use white pepper instead of black to maintain the pale color of the spread
  • Cut sandwiches with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat edges
  • Cover assembled sandwiches with a damp paper towel to prevent drying
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