Club sandwich

A classic club sandwich has toasted bread layered with chicken or turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise. It is usually made with three slices of bread, then cut into quarters and held together with cocktail sticks.

Toast the bread until golden, pat the tomato dry and spread mayonnaise on the bread to create a barrier against the wet fillings. Assemble the sandwich just before serving, especially if you are using juicy tomatoes.

You can cook the chicken and bacon and wash the lettuce in advance, but keep them chilled and assemble the sandwich shortly before eating. Once assembled, the tomato and mayonnaise soften the toast, so it is best not left sitting.

Crisps or chips are classic accompaniments; a green salad or coleslaw makes a fresher side. Pickles also work well with the smoky bacon and creamy mayonnaise.

Use grilled halloumi, avocado or extra chicken for a bacon-free version. For a vegetarian club, layer halloumi or a firm meat-free alternative with lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise.

The extra slice separates the fillings into two layers, making room for both the meat and the salad. It also gives the tall sandwich structure, which is why it is commonly secured with cocktail sticks before being cut.