Cheese-And-Olive Tea Sandwiches
Delightful tea sandwiches featuring a savory blend of cheese, olives, and pimentos, perfect for elegant afternoon gatherings or brunch with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded cheese, chopped olives, chopped pimentos, and mayonnaise about 1 hour before serving or early in the day.
- Trim crusts from the bread slices. Save crusts for bread crumbs if desired.
- Lightly spread one side of each bread slice with softened butter or margarine.
- Spread the filling on 8 buttered bread slices, then top with remaining bread slices, butter side down.
- Cut each sandwich diagonally into quarters.
- Line a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2-inch jelly roll pan with damp paper towels.
- Place the tea sandwiches in the pan and cover with damp paper towels to keep the bread from drying out.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a touch of cream cheese to the mayonnaise mixture. If you can't find Jarlsberg, Swiss cheese works well as a substitute. You can also experiment with different olives, like Kalamata or green olives, for varied flavor profiles. For added texture, consider mixing in some finely chopped herbs like dill or chives.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese-and-olive tea sandwiches make a delightful addition to any tea party or gathering. Pair them with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a perfect afternoon snack. For a complete spread, serve alongside a light salad or some fresh fruit. They also pair beautifully with Aunt Frances' Chocolate Pie (Best In The World!) for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the sandwiches in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels to maintain moisture. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid freezing, as the bread can become soggy upon thawing. To serve, simply remove from the fridge and enjoy cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-And-Olive Tea Sandwiches contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches a few hours before serving to maintain the freshness of the bread. Just cover them well to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will give the filling a tangy flavor while still keeping it creamy. You can also use avocado for a healthier twist, blending it until smooth.
Can I use whole grain bread instead of white?
Absolutely! Whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just ensure that the bread is sliced thinly for the best texture and to keep the sandwiches light. This is a great way to make the recipe slightly healthier while still enjoying the classic flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).