Derbytide

Saturday is the Kentucky Derby. We’re actually going to a Derby party here in Virginia, but at home in Louisville they’ve been partying for weeks. As my sister says, right after Eastertide comes Derbytide. I’m taking Kentucky burgoo (not a vegetarian dish) and a plate of Benedictine sandwiches to the party. I hope someone in Louisville remembers to offer Queen Elizabeth some Benedictine sandwiches with her tea.

Benedictine Spread

This quintessential Louisville food has nothing to do with either monks or liqueur. It was developed by a popular Louisville caterer Jennie Benedict. It’s the perfect filling for finger sandwiches to serve at Derby parties. A new development in recent decades is the B&B sandwich – Benedictine and bacon. So, if you eat meat you might want to try that. Personally I’ll stick with the classic.

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
3 tablespoons grated cucumber, drained well with paper towel
1 teaspoon finely chopped green onions with tops
1 drop green food coloring (optional) depends on how shockingly green you want it.
Tablespoon finely chopped parsley
Dash Tabasco
Dash salt

Blend all ingredients together and mix well.

Yield: 10 to 12 servings