Turkey and Avocado Club

This Turkey and Avocado Club sandwich transforms ordinary lunch into something extraordinary. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and lean turkey creates layers of texture and flavor that make this a sandwich worth savoring. The triple-decker design not only looks impressive but ensures each bite delivers the perfect balance of ingredients.

I first made this sandwich when looking for ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey and it quickly became our family's go-to lunch option year-round. My teenagers now request it for school lunches and even my picky eater husband asks for it by name.

Ingredients

• Whole grain or white bread: Provides the foundation choose bakery fresh for best results
• Turkey breast slices: Use freshly roasted when possible or quality deli meat
• Bacon: Adds smoky crispness thick cut offers more texture and flavor
• Ripe avocado: Contributes creamy richness select ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Fresh lettuce leaves: Romaine or butter lettuce offer the perfect crunch
• Tomato slices: Choose vine ripened for superior flavor and juiciness
• Mayonnaise or mustard: Creates a moisture barrier preventing soggy bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Bread:

Toast three slices of bread until golden brown and crisp around the edges. The toasting step is crucial as it creates a sturdy base that stands up to the moisture from vegetables and prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy. For extra flavor brush the bread with a little butter before toasting.

Cook the Bacon:

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lay bacon strips flat ensuring they dont overlap. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes turning occasionally until they reach your desired crispness. The bacon should be thoroughly cooked but still slightly pliable not brittle. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease which keeps your sandwich from becoming too oily.

Prepare the Avocado:

Select a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure. Cut it in half lengthwise rotate the halves to separate and remove the pit. Score the flesh into thin slices while still in the skin then scoop out with a spoon. Work quickly and brush with a tiny bit of lemon juice if not using immediately to prevent browning.

Spread Mayonnaise:

Apply a thin even layer of mayonnaise or your preferred spread to one side of each bread slice. This creates a moisture barrier between the bread and juicy ingredients helping maintain the integrity of your toast. For extra flavor consider mixing herbs or a touch of garlic into your mayonnaise.

Layer Bottom Tier:

Place one slice of bread mayonnaise side up on your work surface. Arrange 2 slices of turkey ensuring complete coverage of the bread. Add 2 to 3 tomato slices and a leaf of lettuce trimmed to fit the bread. The lettuce creates another moisture barrier protecting the lower bread from tomato juices.

Add Avocado and Bacon:

Arrange avocado slices evenly across the lettuce providing full coverage. Add bacon strips breaking if necessary to fit within the bread perimeter. The goal is to ensure every bite contains a bit of each ingredient for the perfect flavor balance.

Construct Middle Tier:

Place the second slice of bread mayonnaise side up on top of the first layer. Repeat the layering process with remaining turkey tomato lettuce avocado and bacon. Press gently to compact ingredients for easier eating.

Complete the Club:

Crown your creation with the final bread slice mayonnaise side down. Press gently but firmly to set all ingredients in place. Insert toothpicks at the four corners to hold everything together during cutting and serving.

Pin it

The avocado is truly the star ingredient in this sandwich. I discovered its transformative power years ago when making sandwiches for a family picnic. What started as a way to use up ripening avocados became the most requested item at our gatherings. The creamy texture perfectly balances the crispy elements and adds a richness that elevates an ordinary sandwich to something special.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing certain components in advance can make assembly lightning fast when hunger strikes. Cook and refrigerate bacon up to three days ahead. Store it between paper towels in an airtight container to maintain crispness. You can also slice tomatoes and wash lettuce in advance keep them separate in the refrigerator. The only element I recommend preparing just before serving is the avocado as it browns quickly once cut even with lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions

This club sandwich pairs beautifully with classic sides like potato chips or a light salad. For a more substantial meal add a cup of tomato soup or vegetable broth on the side. When serving for gatherings cut into quarters and secure each section with a decorative toothpick for easy handling. I like to serve this on a wooden cutting board for casual family meals or individual plates lined with parchment paper for a more elegant presentation.

Creative Variations

While the classic version is perfection there are endless ways to customize this sandwich. Substitute turkey with chicken or roast beef for variety. Vegetarians can skip the meat entirely and double up on avocado and vegetables. Add cheese like Swiss pepper jack or provolone between layers for extra richness. Experiment with spreads like pesto avocado mayo or cranberry sauce during holiday season. My family loves adding pickled red onions for a tangy contrast to the creamy avocado.

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A simple yet satisfying club sandwich, elevated with fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What bread is best for this sandwich?

Whole grain or white bread works best as they toast to a golden, crisp texture, perfect for layering the ingredients.

→ Can I use a substitute for turkey?

Yes, you can use chicken, ham, or even a vegetarian protein like roasted tofu as a substitute for turkey in this sandwich.

→ How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Squeeze a little lemon or lime juice on the avocado slices to prevent browning and keep them fresh.

→ Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the sandwich right before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble later.

→ What other spreads can I use besides mayonnaise?

Mustard, hummus, pesto, or a flavored cream cheese spread can be great alternatives to mayonnaise.

→ How do I ensure the bacon remains crispy?

Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease and keep it crispy when layered within the sandwich.