Classic Savoury Finger Food Ideas

Sandwiches and Wraps

Sandwiches are a staple of any afternoon tea, offering simple yet elegant flavours in every bite. Here are some timeless classics

• Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
  A quintessential tea-time treat, these delicate sandwiches are made with soft white bread, thinly sliced cucumbers, and a creamy spread of lightly seasoned cream cheese. For added flair, use a cookie cutter to create interesting shapes like circles or triangles.
• Smoked Salmon with Dill and Capers
  This option brings an upscale touch to your tea menu. Layer smoked salmon on slices of rye or wholegrain bread, add a dollop of cream cheese, sprinkle with dill, and top with a caper for a flavour-packed bite.
• Mini Chicken or Turkey Wraps
  Wraps are a great way to include heartier options. Fill small tortillas with tender chicken or turkey, crisp lettuce, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. Roll them tightly and slice them into bite-sized portions.

In addition, you can also refer to our savoury morning tea recipes if needed.

Savoury Pastries

Pastries add a flaky, indulgent element to your spread, perfect for pairing with tea.

• Mini Quiches
  Miniature quiches are versatile and can be customized with various fillings, including spinach and feta, bacon and cheese, or mushroom and onion. Bake these in small tart tins for a bite-sized option.
• Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls
  These crowd-pleasers feature golden, flaky pastry filled with well-seasoned sausage meat. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before baking for an extra touch of flavour.
• Cheese and Onion Tartlets
  These tartlets combine caramelized onions and creamy cheese baked in a shortcrust pastry shell. They’re rich, savoury, and perfect for complementing your tea.

Unique and Modern Savoury Ideas

Skewers and Bites

Modern presentations like skewers and small bites are both stylish and practical for afternoon tea.

• Caprese Skewers:
  These colourful skewers combine cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mini mozzarella balls. Drizzle them with balsamic glaze just before serving for a refreshing, Italian-inspired bite.
• Chicken Satay Sticks:
  Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce bring a warm, flavorful element to your tea table.
• Antipasto Skewers:
  Create a Mediterranean twist by layering olives, slices of salami, chunks of cheese, and roasted red peppers on small skewers.

Savoury Tarts and Flatbreads

These creative options add variety and visual appeal to your spread



• Mini Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts
  Sweet caramelized onions paired with creamy goat cheese in a buttery tart shell are a sure hit with guests.
• Bite-Sized Pesto and Veggie Flatbreads
  Small flatbread slices topped with pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach are light yet packed with flavour.

Healthier Options for Savoury Finger Foods

Vegetable-Based Finger Foods

For guests seeking lighter or plant-based options, these veggie-focused choices are perfect:

• Cucumber Cups Filled with Hummus
  Hollowed-out cucumber slices filled with smooth hummus provide a crunchy, refreshing option. Garnish with paprika or parsley for added colour.
• Zucchini Fritters
  These golden fritters are made from grated zucchini, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Serve them with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or tzatziki sauce.
• Sweet Potato Bites with Toppings
  Roast sweet potato rounds and top them with ingredients like guacamole, goat cheese, or spiced chickpeas for a unique and flavorful bite.

Protein-Packed Savoury Options

Hearty options that include protein are ideal for keeping guests satisfied:

• Deviled Eggs
  Classic deviled eggs are an easy and budget-friendly choice. Mix the yolk with mayonnaise, mustard, and spices, then pipe the filling back into the whites.
• Mini Chicken or Tuna Salad Cups
  Serve chicken or tuna salad in small lettuce leaves or phyllo cups for a mess-free, protein-packed snack.

Tips for Preparing Savoury Finger Foods

Preparing Ahead of Time

• Foods That Can Be Made the Day Before
  Prepare items like quiches, tarts, and skewers a day in advance and refrigerate them. For sandwiches, assemble the fillings ahead of time and store them separately, assembling the sandwiches just before serving.
• Last-Minute Assembly Tips
  Items like wraps and pastries for afternoon tea prepared close to the event to maintain freshness and crispness.

Portion Sizes and Quantities

• Calculating Per Guest Requirements
  Plan for 4-6 savoury items per guest, ensuring a mix of light and filling options.
• Ensuring a Variety of Options
  Offer a combination of vegetarian, gluten-free, and protein-rich items to cater to diverse preferences.

Savoury Finger Foods for Special Diets

Vegetarian and Vegan Options



 These plant-based bites ensure inclusivity:

• Vegan Mini Sandwiches with Avocado and Tomato
  Layer slices of avocado and tomato on wholegrain bread spread with vegan mayonnaise for a fresh, satisfying option.
• Stuffed Bell Pepper Bites
  Mini bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, black beans, or spiced lentils make for a colourful and nutritious addition.

Gluten-Free Choices

• Rice Paper Rolls with Dipping Sauce:
  Filled with shredded vegetables, cooked chicken, or tofu, these fresh rolls are both gluten-free and delicious.
• Gluten-Free Savoury Muffins:
  Made with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends, these muffins can be flavoured with cheese, herbs, or vegetables.

FAQs

What are some quick savoury finger foods for afternoon tea?

Options like cucumber sandwiches, puff pastry sausage rolls, and deviled eggs are quick and easy to prepare while still being crowd-pleasers.

How do I cater to a mixed group with dietary restrictions?

Offer a variety of options, such as gluten-free rice paper rolls, vegan sandwiches, and protein-packed bites, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.

Can savoury foods be served cold or at room temperature?

Yes! Many savoury finger foods, such as mini quiches, sandwiches, and antipasto skewers, are deliciously served cold or at room temperature.

What is the best way to store finger foods before serving?

Store pre-prepared items in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble delicate items, like sandwiches, closer to serving time to keep them fresh.