Classic Club Sandwich Recipe

The classic club is a triple-decker sandwich made up of three slices toasted white bread, deli-sliced turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. The middle slice of bread has been decried, most famously by James Beard, however, if the club was to be robbed of that slice, where would the signature toothpicks be that hold it together?

Third slice arguments and toothpicks aside, the Club is built with minimalist ingredients, which means each one will stick out quite prominently. For best results use only fresh ingredients: crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, good-quality turkey or chicken, thick-cut bacon, and sturdy bread. This recipe shines a spotlight on each ingredient, for instance, seasoning the tomatoes and griddling mayonnaise-spread bakery bread slices until golden.

Texture in this layered sandwich is important as well, so stay away from limp greens, mushy tomatoes, and undercooked bacon. Mayonnaise is the single official condiment in the club, but I like to sneak in a little Dijon mustard. A Hellmann's fan myself, use whatever mayonnaise you like, and, should you have a few minutes to spare, make it from scratch.

Oh, and, always remember to cut your Club sandwich into four neat little triangles.