Classic Benedictine Sandwich Spread
Make this refreshing, green cucumber cream cheese spread, a hidden gem of Southern culture, perfect for tea party sandwiches or Derby Day appetizers.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: About 1.5 cups spread 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup finely grated cucumber, peeled and seeds removed
- 1/4 cup finely minced green onion (scallions)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess water as possible. This step is key for a firm spread.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained cucumber, green onion, salt, and pepper.
- Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to beat the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the mayonnaise and chopped fresh parsley until the spread achieves a uniform, spring green color.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Benedictine spread for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
- To serve as a Benedictine sandwich, spread a generous layer onto white bread slices from which you have removed the crusts. Cut the sandwiches into small triangles or use a cookie cutter for visual appeal.
Notes
- For the best texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
- If you plan to make these ahead of time, wait to assemble the sandwiches until just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- This spread works well as a dip for crackers or as a filling for small puff pastry shells.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 30