1905 Salad

The 1905 Salad is an iconic dish that has earned its place as a staple in many kitchens, particularly thanks to its roots at the famous Columbia Restaurant in Tampa. A perfect blend of fresh ingredients, savory flavors, and a unique dressing, this salad has a rich history that goes back to the 1940s. Whether you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal or looking for a tasty side dish to accompany your dinner, the 1905 Salad offers a delightful and timeless option. Let’s dive into what makes this salad so special and how you can recreate it at home.

Introduction to 1905 Salad

What is 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines fresh greens with savory ingredients like ham, Swiss cheese, and olives. It’s known for its tangy, garlicky dressing that brings everything together. Originally created by Tony Noriega, a waiter at the Columbia Restaurant, this salad has become synonymous with the restaurant’s legacy. Despite its seemingly simple ingredients, the 1905 Salad packs a punch of flavor, making it a favorite for salad lovers everywhere.

Whether served as a starter or a light meal, this salad is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to see why it has stood the test of time. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and tangy dressing. The 1905 Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Origins and History

The origins of the 1905 Salad date back to 1940s Tampa, Florida. The salad was named after the Columbia Restaurant’s founding year, 1905. Tony Noriega, a talented waiter at the time, created this salad as part of the restaurant’s menu. Since then, the 1905 Salad has become one of the most beloved dishes served at the Columbia Restaurant, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.

In fact, the 1905 Salad became so popular that it is now featured in various restaurants and even in home kitchens. It has a distinct Mediterranean flair, with influences from Spanish cuisine, and its unique dressing sets it apart from other salads. Each bite brings a taste of history, tradition, and a bit of Tampa’s culinary culture.

Ingredients and Preparation

Key Ingredients

To make the 1905 Salad, you don’t need a long list of ingredients. However, each one plays an important role in creating the perfect flavor balance.

• Lettuce: Iceberg lettuce is the base of this salad. It’s crispy and refreshing. It gives the salad a nice crunch, making it perfect for the texture lovers.
• Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are cut into wedges. They add juiciness and a slightly sweet flavor that balances the other savory ingredients.
• Ham: Thinly sliced, julienned ham is used to bring in a meaty element. The ham’s flavor is rich but not overwhelming, and it pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Swiss Cheese: The cheese is also julienned. Swiss cheese adds a mild, nutty flavor that complements the salty ham and olives.
• Green Spanish Olives: These olives are halved and pitted. They bring a bit of brine and sharpness, which cuts through the richness of the ham and cheese.
• Romano Cheese: Romano cheese is grated and sprinkled on top for an extra punch of flavor. It’s slightly sharper than Parmesan, making it the perfect finishing touch.

Dressing Components

The dressing is what sets this salad apart from others. It’s a simple but flavorful combination of a few key ingredients. The key is in balancing the tanginess, richness, and herbiness.

• Olive Oil: Extra-virgin Spanish olive oil is preferred. It’s rich, smooth, and adds a lot of flavor to the dressing.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. It gives the dressing a savory depth.
• Dried Oregano: This herb brings an earthy, Mediterranean touch. It’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A few dashes of this sauce provide umami—a savory richness that enhances the other flavors in the dressing.
• White Wine Vinegar: The vinegar adds acidity to the dressing. This balances out the richness of the olive oil and cheese.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the dressing a bright, zesty kick that brings all the ingredients to life.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is crucial for taste. Salt and pepper help bring out the flavors in the dressing and salad.

The 1905 Salad is made with ingredients you likely already have at home, and the dressing is easy to whip up. In the next section, we’ll go over how to bring everything together and create this delicious, timeless dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Salad

To start, wash your lettuce thoroughly. Dry it well to keep the salad crisp. Once dry, tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.

Next, cut the tomatoes into wedges. Add them to the bowl with the lettuce. Then, take the julienned ham and Swiss cheese, and toss them in as well.

Finally, halve and pit the green Spanish olives. Add them to the salad for a salty, briny touch. You’re almost ready!

Making the Dressing

Now it’s time to make the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice.

Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. The olive oil and vinegar should blend smoothly, creating a slightly thick dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a stronger flavor, you can always add more garlic or vinegar.

Once the dressing is ready, you’ll be set to dress the salad.

Assembling the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad. Be sure to coat all the ingredients. Use tongs to gently toss the salad, making sure each bite has some of that delicious dressing.

To finish, grate some Romano cheese over the top. This adds the final burst of flavor that makes the 1905 Salad so special. Now it’s ready to serve!

Variations and Substitutions

Ingredient Substitutions

While the traditional 1905 Salad is delicious as is, feel free to mix things up with some substitutions.

• Lettuce: Iceberg lettuce is the classic choice, but you can swap it with romaine or mixed greens if you prefer a different texture or taste.
• Ham: If you’re not a fan of ham, try using turkey, chicken, or even shrimp. These options will still give the salad a nice meaty flavor.
• Cheese: Swiss cheese is mild and nutty, but you can substitute it with provolone or mozzarella for a different twist.
• Olives: While green Spanish olives are traditional, black olives can be used for a softer, less bitter flavor.

Dressing Alternatives

If you want to change up the dressing a bit, there are some great alternatives to try.

• Vinegar: Instead of white wine vinegar, you can use balsamic vinegar. It will give the dressing a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
• Mustard: For a tangy twist, add a bit of Dijon mustard. It pairs perfectly with the olive oil and vinegar, giving the dressing a nice zing.

These small changes can make the 1905 Salad feel new, while still keeping the essence of the original recipe.

Nutritional Information

The 1905 Salad is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect from a typical serving:

• Calories: About 306 calories per serving. This makes it a light option that can fit into many diets.
• Fat: Around 27g of fat, most of which comes from healthy olive oil. This helps keep the salad satisfying.
• Protein: With 9g of protein, the ham and Swiss cheese provide a good amount of this essential nutrient.
• Carbohydrates: The salad has 8g of carbs, mostly from the vegetables. This makes it a great choice for a low-carb meal.
• Fiber: There are about 2g of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Sodium: The salad has 756mg of sodium, mostly from the ham and olives. If you’re watching your salt intake, consider reducing these ingredients or using low-sodium versions.

While the 1905 Salad is a healthy choice, it’s always good to adjust portions and ingredients based on your specific dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

The 1905 Salad is a versatile dish. It can be served in many ways, making it perfect for different occasions.

• As a Main Course: This salad is filling enough to be a meal on its own. Pair it with some crusty bread to make it even more satisfying.
• With Grilled Meats or Seafood: The fresh, tangy salad goes great with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The flavors balance each other perfectly.
• For Picnics and Gatherings: The 1905 Salad is easy to prepare and transport. It’s a great option for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks. Everyone will love the taste!

You can even customize the way you serve it. Whether in a big bowl to share or in individual servings, this salad always hits the spot.

FAQs

Why is it called 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad gets its name from the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa. It was created in 1940, but the restaurant was founded in 1905. That’s why it’s called the 1905 Salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This can save you time when you’re ready to prepare the salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the 1905 Salad is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients are free from gluten, so it’s a great option for people with gluten sensitivities.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Definitely! You can use romaine, mixed greens, or even spinach if you prefer. Iceberg lettuce is traditional, but any leafy green will work.

How long can I store the salad?

It’s best to enjoy the 1905 Salad right after you make it. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to one day. The salad may lose some of its crunch, but the flavors will still be great.

Conclusion

The 1905 Salad is a timeless, delicious dish with a rich history. It combines fresh, flavorful ingredients with a unique dressing that makes every bite special. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish, it’s sure to impress.

This salad is easy to make and offers plenty of room for customization. You can swap ingredients or try different dressings to match your tastes. Plus, it’s a healthy choice that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Give the 1905 Salad a try at your next meal or gathering. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Enjoy the taste of Tampa, no matter where you are!

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