Delicious Savory Ideas For Your Afternoon Tea Menu

Afternoon tea is not just about sweet treats; it’s a delightful opportunity to serve some delicious savory bites as well. Perfectly balancing the sweetness of pastries with savory options creates an inviting tea experience. In this article, we will explore an array of tasty savory ideas that you can incorporate into your afternoon tea menu. Get ready to impress your guests with a selection that tantalizes the taste buds! 🍵✨

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Classic Sandwiches 🥪

When it comes to afternoon tea, sandwiches are a staple. Here are some classic fillings that never go out of style:

1. Cucumber Sandwiches: Thinly sliced cucumber with a hint of cream cheese is refreshing and elegant.
2. Egg Salad Sandwiches: Made with mashed eggs and mayonnaise, these bites offer a creamy texture that pairs well with tea.
3. Smoked Salmon Sandwiches: A luxurious option with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill on rye bread.
4. Ham and Mustard Sandwiches: A hearty option that pairs well with a selection of teas.

Quick Sandwich Recipe: Cucumber Sandwiches

Here's a simple recipe to prepare delicious cucumber sandwiches:

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• 8 slices of bread (white or whole grain)

Instructions:

1. Mix the cream cheese with dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the mixture on the bread slices.
3. Thinly slice the cucumber and layer it on four of the slices.
4. Top with the remaining slices and cut into quarters.

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Savory Pastries 🥐

Savory pastries can elevate your afternoon tea experience. Here are some delightful options:

Cheese Scone Recipe

To whip up some cheese scones for your afternoon tea, follow this simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup milk
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the butter and add cheese.
4. Gradually add milk to form a dough.
5. Roll out and cut into shapes, then bake for 15-20 minutes.

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Flavorful Dips and Spreads 🥫

Including some dips and spreads is an excellent way to add variety to your afternoon tea. Here are a few ideas:

• Hummus: A classic chickpea dip that can be flavored with garlic or roasted red peppers.
• Tzatziki: A refreshing Greek yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic.
• Pimento Cheese Spread: A Southern favorite with cheese, pimentos, and spices.

Hummus Recipe

Try this easy hummus recipe for a healthy dip option:

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 garlic clove
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed.
3. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

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Hearty Savory Bites 🍡

For a more filling afternoon tea, consider serving heartier savory options. These can range from mini quiches to meatballs, providing more substance.

• Mini Beef or Veggie Meatballs: Perfect for popping into your mouth.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with cheese, herbs, or sausage.
• Savory Tarts: A variety of fillings can elevate the presentation.

Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Here’s a quick recipe for delicious stuffed mushrooms:

Ingredients:

• 12 large mushrooms
• 1 cup cream cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Herbs to taste (like parsley or thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the stems from mushrooms and chop them finely.
3. Mix the chopped stems with cream cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs.
4. Stuff the mushrooms and bake for 20 minutes.

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Pairing with Tea 🍵

Pairing savory bites with the right teas can enhance the entire afternoon experience. Here are some popular pairings:

Important Note

“The key to a successful afternoon tea is to balance flavors. Make sure your savory items complement your choice of tea for an unforgettable experience.”

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Conclusion

In conclusion, afternoon tea is a wonderful occasion that allows you to get creative with savory options. From classic sandwiches and delightful pastries to dips and hearty bites, there are countless ways to make your afternoon tea menu exciting and enjoyable. Remember to balance your savory offerings with suitable teas for a complete experience. With these delicious savory ideas, your afternoon tea will surely become a cherished event! 🍰🌿

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