SMOKED SALMON TEA SANDWICHES (18)

¼ pound smoked salmon, minced

¼ cup heavy cream

¼ teaspoon Tabasco, or to taste

¾ stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened

12 very thin sliced firm whole wheat sandwich bread

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

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1. In a bowl with a fork stir together smoked salmon, cream and Tabasco until mixture is blended well and creamy.

2.  Spread butter on one side of each bread slice to cover completely and spread 1-1/2 tablespoons salmon mixture evenly on butter side of 6 bread slices.  Sprinkle salmon mixture with chives and top with remaining bread slices, pressing gently.  Trim crusts.  (Sandwiches may be made 4 hours ahead and chilled, wrapped in plastic wrap.)  Cut each sandwich into 3 strips.

from The Best of Gourmet 1996