1905 Salad Recipe

If you ever find yourself at the Columbia Restaurant in Florida, try their famous 1905 salad. It’s a must-try dish that showcases a delightful mix of flavors and ingredients.

From the crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes to the savory ham, Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing, the 1905 salad offers a harmonious blend of tastes that will leave you craving more.

This copycat recipe aims to satisfy your craving for the fresh and distinctive flavors of the 1905 salad. With detailed instructions, you’ll be equipped with everything necessary to recreate a remarkably close, if not spot-on, replica of the original salad, bringing back those beloved tastes and textures you’ve been missing.

What Is 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad is a classic dish from the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, Tampa, Florida. It’s named after the year the restaurant was established.

The 1905 Salad was invented in the 1940s by a waiter named Tony Noriega at the Columbia Restaurant. He created it using leftovers from the fridge and added his Spanish-Italian twist. Even though it wasn’t initially on the menu, customers loved it when Tony served it. Eventually, in 1970, the restaurant officially added the salad to its menu, and it continues to be enjoyed by customers.

Ingredients of 1905 Salad

The 1905 Salad has become a signature dish of the Columbia Restaurant and is enjoyed by many visitors. This iconic dish continues to tantalize taste buds, a testament to the unexpected brilliance found within a humble plate of greens.

This 1905 salad combines iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, ham, Swiss cheese, olives, and grated Romano cheese. It is typically tossed with a dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and lemon juice. Let’s have a look at the ingredients of this recipe.

For The Dressing

Garlic: These little cloves of flavor pack a punch. Garlic adds a distinctive aroma and savory taste to the dressing, elevating the overall taste profile of the salad.

Dried Oregano: With its aromatic and earthy notes, dried oregano brings a Mediterranean touch to the dressing. It adds a hint of herbal freshness that complements the other ingredients.

Worcestershire Sauce: This mysterious and complex sauce brings a depth of umami flavor to the dressing. Made from a blend of ingredients like vinegar, molasses, and spices, Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet kick.

Spanish Olive Oil: Ah, the liquid gold of the Mediterranean. Extra virgin Spanish olive oil lends its smooth and fruity essence to the dressing, enhancing its richness and silky texture.

White Wine Vinegar: A splash of white wine vinegar adds a bright and refreshing acidity to balance the flavors. It brings a tangy note that cuts through the oil’s richness and adds a zing touch.

Fresh Lemon Juice: The zestiness of freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a citrusy brightness to the dressing. It helps to brighten the flavors and adds a refreshing element to the salad.

For The Salad

Iceberg Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing shredded iceberg lettuce forms the green foundation of the salad. Its mild flavor and crunchy texture provide a refreshing base for the other ingredients.

Ripe Tomatoes: Sliced into juicy wedges, ripe tomatoes contribute a sweet and tangy flavor to the salad. They provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.

Swiss Cheese: Sliced into matchstick strips, Swiss cheese brings a creamy and slightly nutty flavor to the salad. Its smooth texture and mild taste add a comforting richness.

Baked Ham (or Shrimp or Turkey): The protein element of the salad comes in the form of baked ham, shrimp, or turkey, sliced into matchstick strips. These options offer diverse flavors and textures, from smoky and savory to tender and succulent.

Green Spanish Olives: Pitted green Spanish olives add a delightful briny and tangy bite to the salad. Their unique flavor and bright green color create a visual and taste contrast that complements the other ingredients.

Freshly Grated Romano Cheese: The final touch of decadence comes from the freshly grated Romano cheese. Its sharp and salty flavor adds a robust depth to the salad, enhancing its complexity.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ons

Mediterranean Twist

Give the salad a Mediterranean twist using a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce instead of iceberg. Add roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Finish with toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch.

Citrus Burst

Create a citrus burst by replacing Swiss cheese with crumbled goat cheese and ham with grilled shrimp. Add segmented citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits for tangy sweetness. Garnish with fresh herbs and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.

Caprese Delight

Transform the salad into a Caprese-inspired version by swapping lettuce for basil leaves. Add buffalo mozzarella and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper for a simple and elegant twist.

Vegan Sensation

Make a vegan version by omitting ham and cheese. Use marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty and flavorful plant-based variation.

Tips And Tricks For Best 1905 Recipe

Freshness is key: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, such as crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful cheeses, to enhance the taste and texture of the salad.

Let the dressing sit: Allow it to sit before pouring it over the salad to let the flavors meld together and develop a more robust taste.

Customize protein options: Experiment with different protein options like shrimp, turkey, or grilled chicken to add variety and cater to different dietary preferences.

Play with cheese varieties: Instead of Swiss cheese, try using other cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, provolone, or even crumbled blue cheese for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Get creative with toppings: Add additional toppings such as sliced avocado, roasted nuts, or sun-dried tomatoes to add texture and flavor to the salad.

Serve with crusty bread: Accompany the 1905 Salad with some crusty bread or garlic bread sticks to complete the meal and provide a satisfying crunch.

How To Store 1905 Salad?

To store the 1905 Salad, it’s best to separate the dressing and the salad components. Place the dressing in an airtight container and refrigerate it separately from the salad ingredients. The dressing can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

As for the salad components, ensure they are properly washed, dried, and stored in airtight containers or zip-top bags. Keep the lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, ham (or protein of choice), olives, and Romano cheese separate.

When ready to serve, assemble the salad by combining the chilled dressing with fresh ingredients. It’s important to note that once the dressing is added, the salad is best enjoyed immediately to maintain its freshness and texture.

What To Serve With 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish or a light meal. However, if you want to create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with complementary dishes.

For a heartier option, serve the salad alongside grilled chicken or steak. You can pair it with a side of crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to add texture and satisfaction. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve the 1905 Salad alongside a bowl of flavorful hummus and pita bread. The combination of these dishes will create a delicious and balanced dining experience.