Nutrition Notes
Are Cucumbers Good for You?
Thanks to their water content, cucumbers can add to your hydration status. They contain the antioxidant silica, which plays an important role in collagen synthesis and keeping your skin smooth and firm. There is also evidence that suggests the compounds in cucumbers may help prevent cancer and diabetes.
If I Use Whole-Grain Bread Instead of Whole-Wheat Bread, Is It Still Nutritious?
Absolutely! As long as the label says 100% whole-grain or 100% whole-wheat, both are nutritious options. The main difference is in the type of whole grains included in each kind of bread. Whole-grain bread typically contains a variety of grains, whereas whole-wheat bread uses just wheat.
Tips from the Test Kitchen
Can I Use a Different Type of Cucumber?
We use an English cucumber for this recipe, which has a mild sweet flavor, thin delicate skin and crisp texture. You can substitute it with Persian cucumbers, which have a similar flavor and texture. Persian cucumbers, also known as mini cucumbers, are small cucumbers about 5 to 6 inches long. They’re commonly sold in packs of six cucumbers in a tray.
How to Thinly Slice Cucumber
Following our step-by-step guide, use a sharp knife to trim away the ends. Thinly slice the cucumber crosswise into rounds. You can also use a mandoline for thinner slices.
Can Cucumber Sandwiches Be Made Ahead?
No, we don’t recommend making cucumber sandwiches ahead of time. The moisture from the cucumbers will release and cause the sandwiches to become soggy. It’s best to serve cucumber sandwiches the day you make them. You can make the cream cheese mixture ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to one day.
What Goes Well with Cucumber Sandwiches?
Serve these cucumber sandwiches with your favorite store-bought or homemade potato chips, cauliflower chips, sweet potato chips or beet chips. They also pair well with a chilled soup and chopped salad.