Delicious Make-Ahead Tea Sandwiches for Your Perfect Tea Party
🎉 Introduction
Planning a tea party? Look no further! These delicious make-ahead tea sandwiches are perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to elegant celebrations. With a variety of flavors and fillings, these finger sandwiches will be the star of your afternoon tea. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to enjoy your guests. Let’s dive into how you can create a selection of the best tea party sandwiches effortlessly!
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic wrap
- Serving platter
🛒 Ingredients
- 8 slices of white or whole grain bread
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 4 ounces smoked salmon
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Radish slices, for garnish
- Microgreens, for garnish
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and fresh dill until well blended. Set aside.
Step 2: Take 4 slices of bread and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each slice.
Step 3: Layer thin cucumber slices over the cream cheese on two of the slices. Top with the other two slices to form two sandwiches.
Step 4: In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture on another pair of bread slices.
Step 5: Layer smoked salmon over the chicken mixture and top with the remaining bread slices to form two more sandwiches.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mash the avocado and mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread this on two slices of bread.
Step 7: Place the remaining slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.
Step 8: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 9: Once ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and cut each sandwich into quarters or halves, depending on your preference.
Step 10: Arrange the sandwiches on a serving platter and garnish with radish slices and microgreens.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
Serves 4-6 | Prep time: 20 minutes | Chill time: 1 hour | Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
These sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 2 days. They are best served cold and do not require reheating.
🥄 Variations
- Substitute cream cheese with hummus for a vegan option.
- Add sliced turkey or beef to the chicken sandwich for extra protein.
- Incorporate different herbs like basil or chives for a flavor twist.
- Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make these sandwiches a day in advance?
A: Yes, these sandwiches can be made a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
Q: What types of bread work best for tea sandwiches?
A: Soft, light breads like white, whole grain, or sourdough are ideal for tea sandwiches.
Q: Can I freeze these tea sandwiches?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze tea sandwiches, as the bread may become soggy when thawed.
Q: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
A: You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a healthier or vegan substitute.
Q: How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
A: Wrap the sandwiches tightly and keep them in the refrigerator until serving. Avoid adding wet ingredients directly to the bread.
Q: What garnishes can I use?
A: Radish slices, microgreens, or edible flowers make great, beautiful garnishes for your tea sandwiches.
Q: Can I use different fillings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fillings like different meats, cheeses, or vegetables.
Q: How can I make the sandwiches more visually appealing?
A: Cut the sandwiches into interesting shapes using cookie cutters and arrange them artfully on the platter.
Q: Are these sandwiches suitable for children?
A: Yes, these sandwiches are family-friendly and can be made with kid-friendly fillings like turkey and cheese.
Q: What drinks pair well with tea sandwiches?
A: Tea is a classic choice, but lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water also complement these sandwiches nicely.
🏁 Conclusion
With these delicious and easy-to-make tea sandwiches, your next tea party is sure to be a hit! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and presentations to make your gathering truly special. Enjoy the delightful company and great food, and create beautiful memories with friends and family. Happy tea party planning!
Delicious Make-Ahead Tea Sandwiches for Your Perfect Tea Party
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and fresh dill until well blended. Set aside.
- Take 4 slices of bread and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each slice.
- Layer thin cucumber slices over the cream cheese on two of the slices. Top with the other two slices to form two sandwiches.
- In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture on another pair of bread slices.
- Layer smoked salmon over the chicken mixture and top with the remaining bread slices to form two more sandwiches.
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado and mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread this on two slices of bread.
- Place the remaining slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.
- Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and cut each sandwich into quarters or halves, depending on your preference.
- Arrange the sandwiches on a serving platter and garnish with radish slices and microgreens.
Notes
These sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 2 days. They are best served cold and do not require reheating. Variations:
- Substitute cream cheese with hummus for a vegan option.
- Add sliced turkey or beef to the chicken sandwich for extra protein.
- Incorporate different herbs like basil or chives for a flavor twist.
- Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
