Just add some pastries and tea and you have the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoying afternoon tea is a lovely, civilized way to spend some time with friends or loved ones. A classic compilation comprises of a selection of crust-free sandwiches (open-faced if you like) some pretty pastries, scones and sweets, along with hot tea and optional Champagne. Radishes are in season. If you’ve never eaten a radish, there are a few ways to enjoy them. The French eat them raw with creamy butter. I love them roasted, they get so sweet and delicious, but my favorite is in sandwiches. When it comes to serving Radish and Herb Butter Tea Sandwiches, I like to aim for 2-3 crustless sandwiches per person. I also like to use a mix of white and brown bread for a pretty presentation. This recipe makes 12 mini sandwiches, for 4 servings. That is 3 sandwiches per person. I did not grow up putting mayonnaise on sandwiches, we used butter. I kicked this up a notch by making a delicious and really easy herb butter using chives, dill and parsley. The herbs in the butter can be changed up. Basil is so good in sandwiches and (if you like it) cilantro/coriander and tarragon are all good options. Whatever herbs you use, herb butter is a really good way to add so much fresh flavor. Herbed cream cheese is also a great idea. It’s always nice to have a good selection of sandwich choices when serving afternoon. Here are some other filling ideas:
Smoked salmon with cream cheese and fresh dill Cucumber and cream cheese Egg salad Cooked small prawn/shrimp salad Ham and mustard Cheese and chutney
When it comes to the sweet part of this, British-style scones and clotted cream are a must. I have 2 recipes for different scones. Classic Scones and Summer Strawberry Scones. There are only 2 things you need to top scones and they are clotted cream and jam. My Clotted Cream for Afternoon Tea post will explain all you need to know about this mandatory scone topping.
