Benedictine Spread

What Is Benedictine?

It’s a popular Kentucky recipe dating back to the early 20th century. It was invented by Jennie Benedict. Made with cream cheese, cucumbers, and dill it is a light and tasty recipe for the warmer months and a must for a Kentucky Derby party.

Ingredients Needed

• English Cucumber– you can use a regular cucumber but scrape out and discard the seeds. You will probably need to use 2.
• Onion– either yellow or sweet.
• Cream Cheese– I use full-fat but you can use reduced-fat.
• Sour Cream– mayonnaise can be used instead.
• Fresh Dill– use fresh. Don’t substitute dried.
• Salt and Pepper
• Green Food Coloring– optional but typically used in Benedictine spread.

Make Ahead

This recipe should be made at least 2 hours in advance. Not only will this allow the flavors to develop, it will thicken it up.

How To Serve Benedictine Spread

Can be served either as a sandwich spread, typically on white bread with the crusts cut away, or as a dip with crudites or crackers. This dip should be on the menu of every Kentucky Derby Party. Use a cookie cutter to cut white bread into circles and make little finger sandwiches for a brunch or a tea.

How To Store

Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Do not freeze. The texture will not be good.

Kitchen Tools I Use

• Box Grater– to grate the cucumber.
• Food Processor– to process the dip until smooth.

More Cucumber Recipes

• Pickled Cuucmbers and Onions
• Cucumber Dill Dressing
• Cucumber Coleslaw
• Creamy Italian Cucumber Salad
• Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

More Kentucky Derby Recipes

• Hot Brown Casserole
• Mini Hot Brown Tarts
• Derby Pie Bars
• Kentucky Chocolate Walnut Pie
• Kentucky Butter Cake