Ingredients
Spread
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
Sandwich
- 1 (1 pound, 4 ounce) package white bread
- 2 cups English cucumber, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- Pepper, optional, to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives), optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour until it becomes soft and spreadable. Alternatively, microwave it in 15-second intervals, stirring between, until softened but not melted.
- Prepare the Spread: Using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning mix together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Cover the bowl and chill the spread in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up the texture and let the flavors meld.
- Slice Cucumbers: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to cut the English cucumbers into thin 1/4-inch slices for even layering.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly on both slices of bread. On half of the bread slices, layer the cucumber slices evenly. Add a sprinkle of cracked pepper and fresh herbs if desired. Top each with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
- Optional Finishing: Remove the crusts if preferred, and cut the sandwiches into halves, triangles, or quarters for elegant serving. Arrange the sandwiches on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is properly softened to avoid lumps in the spread.
- For consistent cucumber slices, a mandoline slicer is recommended.
- Add fresh dill for a classic flavor or parsley/chives for variation.
- Remove crusts for a traditional tea sandwich presentation.
- Keep sandwiches chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
