Delightful meat-free recipes with step-by-step instructions
You don’t need meat to create a spectacular Afternoon Tea spread. Vegetarian sandwiches are full of flavour, texture, and charm. Perfect for layering on your three tiered cake stand. Whether you’re planning a vegetarian Afternoon Tea or simply want to expand your savoury offering, these recipes are sure to impress.
Here’s a carefully curated selection of vegetarian sandwich fillings that honour British tea traditions while adding some creative flair.
Vegetarian Afternoon Tea Sandwich Menu
- Egg Mayo & Watercress
- Cucumber, Cream Cheese & Mint
- Cheddar Cheese & Red Onion Chutney
- Mozzarella, Tomato & Basil
- Roasted Veg & Hummus
- Goat’s Cheese & Beetroot
1. Egg Mayo & Watercresse
A classic that’s always welcome on an Afternoon Tea stand.
You’ll need:
- 3 free-range eggs
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Watercress leaves
- Soft white or wholemeal bread
Instructions:
- Boil the eggs for 9 minutes, then cool under cold water.
- Peel and mash the eggs in a bowl.
- Mix with mayonnaise and mustard, season with salt and pepper.
- Spread onto bread and top with a few watercress leaves.
- Assemble, trim the crusts, and slice into fingers.
2. Cucumber, Cream Cheese & Mint
Refreshing, light, and perfect for summer teas.
You’ll need:
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- 100g full-fat cream cheese
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh mint
- Salt
- White sandwich bread
Instructions:
- Lay cucumber slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix cream cheese with chopped mint.
- Spread cheese mixture on bread, layer with cucumber.
- Assemble, trim crusts, and cut to size.
3. Cheddar Cheese & Red Onion Chutney
Rich and satisfying with a tangy twist.
You’ll need:
- Mature cheddar cheese (sliced)
- Red onion chutney
- Granary or brown bread
Instructions:
- Spread a generous layer of chutney on one slice of bread.
- Add a layer of cheddar cheese.
- Top with second slice, press gently, trim, and slice.
4. Mozzarella, Tomato & Basil
A caprese-inspired sandwich, perfect served cold.
You’ll need:
- Fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- Cherry tomatoes or vine tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil (optional)
- White or ciabatta bread
Instructions:
- Layer mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
- Season lightly and drizzle with a touch of olive oil.
- Assemble, trim, and cut neatly.
5. Roasted Veg & Hummus
Hearty and flavourful, ideal for those who like a rustic touch.
You’ll need:
- Roasted red peppers, courgettes, or aubergines
- 2 tbsp hummus
- Rocket or baby spinach
- Wholegrain bread
Instructions:
- Spread hummus on both slices of bread.
- Add a layer of roasted veg and fresh greens.
- Assemble, trim, and serve.
6. Goat’s Cheese & Beetroot
A slightly sweet and earthy combination that looks as good as it tastes.
You’ll need:
- Soft goat’s cheese
- Cooked beetroot, thinly sliced
- Honey (optional)
- Rye or brown bread
Instructions:
- Spread goat’s cheese on bread.
- Add beetroot slices and a light drizzle of honey if desired.
- Top, trim, and cut.
Pro Tips for Vegetarian Tea Sandwiches
- Balance flavours: Combine creamy elements with acidity (e.g. goat’s cheese + beetroot, cheddar + chutney).
- Add crunch: Watercress, rocket, or thinly sliced veg can add great texture.
- Keep it fresh: Prepare sandwiches no more than 1–2 hours before serving. Cover with a damp towel to keep them moist.
Final Touches
Serve your vegetarian sandwiches alongside classic accompaniments:
- Pickled radishes or gherkins
- Light mixed salad
- Sparkling elderflower or fruit cordials
- A selection of black, green, and herbal teas
Afternoon Tea is all about variety, and these vegetarian sandwiches ensure no one misses out on the savoury side of things. Whether you’re serving vegetarians or simply looking to add more plants to your menu, these recipes deliver on flavour and presentation.
Need a vegan friendly version instead?
👉 Explore our Vegan Afternoon Tea Sandwich Recipes Here
Or ready to present your spread in style?
👉 Check out our Afternoon Tea Cake Stand & Styling Guide
Cream Tea Colours
Afternoon tea is more than just a meal, it’s a ritual, a moment of indulgence, and often, a celebration. Whether you’re marking a birthday, planning a romantic date, entertaining guests from out of town, or simply treating yourself to something special, choosing the right venue can elevate the entire experience. And when it comes to making it truly memorable, colour plays a bigger role than you might think.
Why Afternoon Tea in Spring is the Perfect Thing To Do
Spring in the UK is a welcome shift. After months of grey skies and early nights, the first signs of blossom and sunshine feel like a gentle reset. Parks start to fill again, the days stretch out longer, and everything just feels lighter including our appetite for getting out and about.
The Ultimate DIY Savoury Afternoon Tea Sandwich Menu
Afternoon Tea is one of Britain’s most beloved traditions, and while sweet treats tend to steal the spotlight, it’s the savoury sandwiches that form the heart of the experience. Finger sandwiches are elegant, simple, and packed with flavour perfect for layering your own tiered cake stand at home.
You can also follow us on Pinterest for more afternoon tea inspiration
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