The 1905 Salad is a classic dish that originated from the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida. This iconic salad is known for its unique combination of flavors and its tangy, garlicky dressing. Perfect for lunch or as a side dish, the 1905 Salad is sure to impress with its delicious mix of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making the 1905 Salad, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
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
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix Well:
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, or shake the jar if using one. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
- Chop the Lettuce:
- Roughly chop the iceberg lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Add the Tomatoes:
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges and add them to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Julienne the Cheese and Ham:
- Julienne the Swiss cheese and smoked ham and add them to the salad bowl.
- Add the Olives and Artichokes:
- Add the pimento-stuffed green olives and the halved, quartered marinated artichokes to the salad.
- Add Parmesan or Romano Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan or Romano cheese over the salad.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
- Toss to Combine:
- Toss the salad well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve the 1905 Salad immediately as a main dish for lunch or as a side dish with your favorite entrée.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Dressing: Prepare the dressing a few hours in advance if possible, to allow the flavors to meld together for a more robust taste.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version:
- Omit the smoked ham and add more vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions.
- Chicken 1905 Salad:
- Replace the smoked ham with grilled or roasted chicken breast, julienned.
- Seafood Version:
- Add cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist on the classic salad.
- Cheese Substitution:
- Substitute the Swiss cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake or whisk well before using.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the lettuce may become slightly wilted from the dressing.
3. Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use romaine lettuce or a mixed greens blend instead of iceberg lettuce if you prefer.
4. What can I serve with the 1905 Salad?
The 1905 Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, or pasta. It also makes a great standalone lunch.
5. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the dressing?
Yes, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute for white wine vinegar.
The 1905 Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its unique combination of flavors and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a special gathering, the 1905 Salad is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Give this classic recipe a try and enjoy a taste of culinary history. Happy cooking!