Russian tea sandwiches are open-faced or closed sandwiches built with European cold cuts, cheese, and crisp cucumber on lightly toasted bread. They're quick to assemble and ideal for casual meals with tea.
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Lightly toast the bread. Spread 1 tbsp of mayo on each slice. Place 2-3 slices of deli meat over the top and 2 small pieces of cheese.
Garnish with thinly sliced cucumbers and serve.
Assemble sandwiches fresh just before serving. Store bread, deli meat, and cheese separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; slice cucumber and use within 1 day.
Hearty wheat bread like Lithuanian or Russian sourdough holds up well to mayo and toppings without falling apart. Lightly toasting prevents sogginess.
Assemble them just before serving to keep the bread crisp and cucumber fresh. Toast the bread and prep toppings in advance, then layer when ready to eat.
Any quality European cold cut works—try salami, mortadella, or prosciutto. Choose sliced varieties that layer smoothly over the bread.
Havarti is traditional for its mild, creamy texture, but Swiss, Emmental, or mild cheddar are good substitutes with similar melting properties.
English cucumbers have thin, tender skin and fewer seeds, so peeling is optional. Slice thinly and add just before serving to maintain crispness.
