1905 Salad Recipe – A Timeless Classic And Delicious Idea)

As a passionate cook, I’ve always searched for that one recipe that transcends time and trends, and I found it in the 1905 Salad Recipe. This dish, a blend of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives topped with Swiss cheese and ham, is more than just a salad; it’s a culinary journey. 

Remember the frustration of bland, uninspiring salads? The 1905 Salad recipe is the answer, a burst of flavor in every bite. 

When I first tried this salad, it was a revelation. The homemade dressing, a simple yet perfect blend of garlic, oregano, and olive oil, transformed the fresh ingredients into something extraordinary. 

And the addition of Romano cheese? A stroke of genius. It was one of the simplest yet most effective changes I made to my salad routine. 

The best way to experience a true classic is to take time to prepare this iconic dish. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to elevate their salad game. 

The 1905 Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to the beauty of simple, well-executed flavors.

What Is 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad is a signature dish originally from the Columbia Restaurant, an iconic eatery in Florida. 

This salad is renowned for its unique combination of crisp iceberg lettuce, ripe tomatoes, julienne ham, Swiss cheese, and pimento-stuffed green olives. 

The distinctiveness of this salad comes from its special dressing, a well-balanced mix of garlic, oregano, wine vinegar, and olive oil. 

Garnished with Romano cheese and often served with freshly baked Cuban bread, the 1905 Salad offers a refreshing yet hearty dining experience, blending traditional flavors with culinary nostalgia.

What Is The Origin Of The 1905 Salad Recipe?

The 1905 Salad recipe originated from the Columbia Restaurant, a historic eatery in Tampa’s Ybor City, Florida. 

It was created in the 1940s by Tony Noriega after the post-Prohibition reopening of the restaurant. 

The salad was named to commemorate the year the Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant, was founded. 

This iconic dish reflects the cultural melting pot of Tampa, combining elements from Spanish, Italian, and Cuban cuisines. 

It quickly became a signature dish, beloved for its unique blend of ingredients and flavors. The 1905 Salad is a culinary delight and part of Florida’s rich cultural heritage.

Ingredients List

For Dressing

Ingredients	Quantity
Olive oil	1/2 cup
Lemon juice	2 tbsp
White wine vinegar	1-2 tbsp
Worcestershire sauce	1-2 tbsp
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Dried oregano	1 tsp
Salt and pepper	To taste

For Salad

Iceberg lettuce, shredded	1 head
Ham slices, julienned	1/2 lb
Swiss cheese slices, julienned	1/3 lb
Cherry tomatoes, halved	10 oz
Green olives, sliced	5 oz
Red onion, sliced thin	1/2
Croutons	5 oz
Parmesano Reggiano cheese, grated	2 oz

What Are The Tips For The 1905 Salad Recipe?

• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for crispness and flavor.
• Dressing Preparation: Whisk the dressing thoroughly for a well-emulsified texture. Let it sit for a bit to enhance the flavors.
• Garlic Infusion: For a more intense flavor, let minced garlic infuse in the olive oil before mixing the dressing.
• Cheese Quality: Use high-quality Swiss and Parmesano Reggiano for richness.
• Meat Selection: Choose good quality, thinly sliced ham and julienne it finely.
• Toss Gently: Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the lettuce and evenly distribute the dressing.
• Serve Immediately: Serve right after tossing to maintain the crunchiness of the lettuce and croutons.

Are There Any Unusual Or Exotic Ingredients That Work Well With This Salad?

While the Classic 1905 Salad is a traditional recipe, you can introduce unusual or exotic ingredients to add a unique twist:

• Hearts of Palm: A tropical touch with a mild, slightly nutty flavor.
• Shrimp or Crab: For a seafood upgrade that complements the salad’s flavors.
• Avocado: Creamy richness and a creamy contrast to the greens.
• Candied Pecans: Adds sweetness and crunch to the dish.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Brings smoky notes and vibrant color.
• Fresh Herbs: Like basil, cilantro, or dill for a herbal lift.
• Mango Slices: Adds a tropical sweetness and juiciness.
• Goat Cheese: A tangy, creamy addition for depth of flavor.

Recipe Directions

Dressing

• If you plan to serve the salad immediately, prepare the dressing. In the bottom of a large salad bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Once combined, taste the dressing and adjust the flavors as needed. Perhaps a bit more lemon juice for tanginess or a pinch of salt. Set the dressing aside in the bowl.

Salad

• Prepare your salad ingredients: shred the iceberg lettuce, julienne the ham and Swiss cheese slices, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the green olives and red onion, and have your croutons and Parmesano Reggiano cheese ready.
• Add all these prepped salad ingredients into the salad bowl with the dressing.
• Toss everything thoroughly to ensure that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. The key is to mix gently, but well so every bite of salad is flavorful.
• Just before serving, I like to add a generous topping of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for an extra flavor.
• Finally, give a few scrunches of black pepper over the top for a finishing touch.

Eat well, live better. The 1905 Salad Recipe: A recipe for a joyful life.

What Herbs And Spices Work Well In 1905 Salad Recipe?

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a sweet, aromatic touch.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley contributes a light, fresh flavor.
• Chives: Mild onion-like flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Cilantro: For a hint of citrusy, earthy notes.
• Thyme: A small amount of fresh thyme can add a subtle, earthy flavor.
• Dill: Works well with the lemon in the dressing.
• Paprika: A pinch for a mild, sweet note.
• Cumin: Just a hint can add a warm, earthy tone.

Nutritional Values

The 1905 Salad recipe is a nutritious option. It typically includes fresh iceberg lettuce, ripe tomatoes, Swiss cheese, ham, and green olives. 

The dressing contains olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and lemon juice. This salad provides essential nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. 

What Are The Total Calories In The Salad?

The total calories in a 1905 Salad recipe can vary depending on ingredient proportions and serving size. A standard serving of this salad typically contains around 350 to 450 calories. 

However, the calorie count may differ based on factors like the amount of cheese, ham, and dressing used.

Health Benefits Of 1905 Salad Recipe

The 1905 Salad recipe offers various health benefits:

Nutrition Table

What Dressings Are Best Served With 1905 Salad Recipe?

The 1905 Salad can be enhanced with various dressings to elevate its flavors. Here are some excellent dressing options:

• Classic Vinaigrette: A simple, timeless choice with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs.
• Creamy Garlic Dressing: Adds a rich, garlicky flavor with a creamy texture.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette: Offers sweet acidity, complementing the salad’s ingredients.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy, creamy option that pairs well with bacon and cheese.
• Honey Mustard: Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Ranch Dressing: Creaminess and a familiar taste that complements the salad’s ingredients.
• Caesar Dressing: A rich, garlicky option with anchovy undertones.
• Lemon Herb Vinaigrette: Adds zesty brightness and a fresh herbal touch.

Are There Any Unique Toppings That Can Elevate The Crunch Factor?

• Crispy Chickpeas: Oven-roasted for a delightful crunch.
• Toasted Quinoa: Adds a nutty crunch and is a great gluten-free option.
• Fried Shallots: Offer a sweet, crispy addition.
• Seed Brittle: A mix of seeds like pumpkin and sunflower, candied in a light syrup.
• Sesame Sticks: Add a savory, crunchy element.
• Wasabi Peas: For a spicy, crunchy kick.
• Pita Chips: Broken into bite-size pieces, they provide a hearty crunch.
• Rice Noodles: Fried rice noodles can add an interesting texture.

What Is The Difference Between Homemade And Store-Bought 1905 Salad?

The difference between homemade and store-bought 1905 Salad lies in several key aspects:

• Freshness: Homemade allows the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Customization: Homemade recipes offer flexibility to adjust ingredients and seasonings to personal preferences.
• Quality Control: Making it at home ensures ingredient quality and avoids additives or preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
• Cost: Homemade can be more cost-effective, especially when using readily available ingredients.
• Taste: Homemade often has a fresher and more authentic taste, reflecting individual culinary choices.
• Convenience: Store-bought provides a quick, convenient option for those with limited time but may compromise on freshness and customization.

How Can You Store Or Preserve The 1905 Salad Recipe Leftovers?  

• Separate Components: Keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients to prevent sogginess.
• Airtight Containers: Store the salad and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume Quickly: Consume the salad within 1-2 days for the best quality.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can degrade the salad’s texture.
• Chill Promptly: Refrigerate leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
• Revive Before Serving: If the salad appears a bit wilted, revive it with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving.
• Add Fresh Ingredients: When ready to eat, add fresh ingredients like lettuce or tomatoes to refresh the salad.

Special Tools & Equipment List

• Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the salad dressing ingredients.
• Large Salad Bowl: Needed for mixing the salad ingredients comfortably.
• Mandoline Slicer: Useful for uniformly slicing vegetables and cheese.
• Garlic Press: For easily mincing garlic cloves.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring dressing ingredients.
• Chef’s Knife: Crucial for chopping and preparing salad ingredients.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for slicing and dicing.
• Peeler: Handy for shaving cheese or making vegetable ribbons.
• Salad Spinner: Useful for washing and drying lettuce leaves.
• Grater: For grating Parmesan cheese.
• Citrus Juicer: To extract lemon juice for the dressing efficiently.
• Mixing Spoons: For stirring and tossing the salad.
• Serving Utensils: Tongs or large serving spoons for serving the salad.
• Storage Containers: For storing leftovers or prepped ingredients.
• Salad Plates: For an appealing presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make The 1905 Salad In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Still, it’s best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the lettuce.

What Can I Use As A Substitute For Ham In The Salad?

You can omit the ham or replace it with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. For a meat alternative, turkey ham is a good substitute.

How Long Can I Store The Leftover Salad?

If you have leftover salad, it’s best consumed within 1-2 days. Store the dressing separately to keep the salad from becoming soggy.

Is The 1905 Salad Gluten-Free?

The salad can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and omitting the croutons or using gluten-free ones.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To This Salad?

Absolutely! For additional flavor and texture, add other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocado.