1905 Salad

The 1905 Salad is a dish that, while not dating back to the year 1905, originates from a restaurant that does. The Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest, opened its doors in Tampa’s Ybor City in 1905. The salad, however, was crafted by a creative waiter in the 1940s. Recognized as one of America’s Top Ten Best Salads by USA Today, this salad will win you over with its savory, salty, and crispy elements, all brought together by a rich vinaigrette.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average green salad. Loaded with thick matchsticks of julienned ham and Swiss cheese, pimento-stuffed olives, artichoke hearts, and large wedges of juicy tomato, it even has an extra helping of finely grated Parmesan cheese. The star of the show is the dressing, which ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Small bowl for mixing dressing
• Whisk
• Large serving bowl

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, roughly chopped
• 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, julienned
• 1 cup smoked ham, julienned
• 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives
• 1 cup quartered marinated artichokes, halved
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, make the dressing:
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Gradually beat in the vinegar to form an emulsion, then whisk in salt and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, ham, Swiss cheese, olives, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add the dressing, toss to combine, and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the dressing for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
• Serve immediately after tossing the salad to keep it crisp.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and add more cheese or some chickpeas for protein.
• Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a hint of spice.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of iceberg lettuce?

Romaine or butter lettuce are great alternatives that will hold up well with the dressing.

Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

You can use soy sauce or tamari for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

The 1905 Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re recreating a piece of history or simply looking for a hearty salad to enjoy, this recipe is a winner. Try it out and let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below!