The 1905 Salad originated in the renowned Columbia Restaurant, which is Florida’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. Established in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., the Columbia Restaurant began as a small cafe serving Cuban coffee and sandwiches. Over time, it expanded into a large, vibrant dining establishment, blending Spanish and Cuban culinary influences. The 1905 Salad emerged from this rich culinary history and has become one of the restaurant’s most famous dishes.

Overview of How the Salad Got Its Name

The name “1905 Salad” is a direct reference to the founding year of the Columbia Restaurant. The salad itself became a staple on the menu much later but was named in honor of the restaurant’s long-standing history and success. The decision to name it after the year 1905 highlights the restaurant’s commitment to its heritage and its enduring presence in the Florida culinary scene.

Why the 1905 Salad Has Remained a Classic Over the Decades

The 1905 Salad has endured for decades because of its perfect balance of simple, yet high-quality ingredients that create bold, unforgettable flavors. The combination of fresh iceberg lettuce, juicy tomatoes, Swiss cheese, smoked ham, and pimento-stuffed olives creates a unique flavor profile that has broad appeal. Additionally, the tangy, garlicky dressing is a key component that elevates the salad and keeps it fresh and relevant to diners.

The salad also embodies the restaurant’s Spanish-Cuban heritage, which has made it both a regional specialty and a nationally recognized dish. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the way it represents tradition while still appealing to modern tastes, making it a timeless choice for salad lovers.

What Makes the 1905 Salad Unique?

Key Features of the Salad

The 1905 Salad stands out for several key features:

• Combination of Ingredients: The salad mixes a variety of textures and flavors, including crispy iceberg lettuce, rich Swiss cheese, savory smoked ham, and briny pimento-stuffed green olives. The artichoke hearts add an earthy and tangy flavor, while the grated Parmesan or Romano cheese brings a sharp, salty edge.
• Signature Dressing: The salad’s dressing is a signature element that sets it apart from many other salads. The blend of olive oil, garlic, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings creates a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that complements the salad ingredients perfectly.

How It Stands Out from Other Salads in Terms of Flavor and Texture

Compared to typical salads that rely on lighter ingredients or a single type of dressing, the 1905 Salad boasts a robust flavor profile thanks to its smoked ham and Swiss cheese, which add savory and nutty notes. The pimento-stuffed olives contribute a briny punch, while the marinated artichoke hearts offer a subtle tanginess that enriches the overall flavor.

In terms of texture, the crisp iceberg lettuce provides a refreshing crunch, while the cheese and ham add a satisfying bite. This contrast of textures, combined with the vibrant flavors, makes the salad both hearty and refreshing—a rare balance in many traditional salads.

Overview of the Signature Dressing

The 1905 Salad dressing is a unique blend of Mediterranean flavors, combining ingredients that are both bold and fresh. The olive oil serves as the base, offering a smooth richness that allows the other ingredients to shine. Minced garlic and dried oregano bring aromatic intensity, while the Worcestershire sauce adds a hint of umami. The white wine vinegar and lemon juice provide necessary acidity, balancing the richness of the oil and ham. Salt and pepper round out the seasoning, enhancing the overall taste.

This dressing is not only flavorful but also versatile, giving the salad a memorable, zesty kick that is key to its appeal. It’s often noted for being easy to prepare yet incredibly effective in elevating the dish’s flavor, which is one of the reasons the salad has achieved iconic status in Florida cuisine and beyond.

Ingredients Breakdown

The Essential Ingredients for the Dressing

1. Olive Oil:
   The foundation of the 1905 Salad’s dressing, olive oil is crucial for its ability to emulsify with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and cohesive texture. A good-quality olive oil adds richness and depth, coating the salad ingredients in a luxurious layer of flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is ideal because of its robust, fruity taste, which enhances the dressing’s Mediterranean-inspired profile.
2. Garlic:
   Fresh garlic is indispensable in this dressing, as it provides a sharp, pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and cheese. Minced garlic infuses the dressing with its signature bite, ensuring that each bite of the salad has a strong, aromatic kick. Fresh garlic, as opposed to dried or powdered, offers a more vibrant, intense flavor.
3. Oregano:
   The use of dried oregano is a key element in this dressing, as it provides a bold, earthy, and herbaceous flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients. Dried oregano is preferable because it releases its oils over time, allowing its flavor to meld into the dressing and balance the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice.
4. Worcestershire Sauce:
   Worcestershire sauce is an unexpected yet essential component of the 1905 Salad dressing, contributing a unique umami depth. Its combination of vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and spices adds a complex savory flavor that enhances the other ingredients, particularly the smoked ham and cheese.
5. White Wine Vinegar:
   The white wine vinegar adds a crisp, tangy brightness to the dressing, cutting through the richness of the olive oil and cheese. Its acidity is essential in balancing the heavier components of the salad, ensuring the dressing remains light and refreshing without overwhelming the fresh ingredients.
6. Lemon Juice:
   Fresh lemon juice adds another layer of acidity, providing a zesty, citrusy kick. It helps to brighten the overall flavor, enhancing the salad’s freshness and complementing the vinegar’s tang. The combination of lemon juice and vinegar ensures a well-rounded acidic balance in the dressing.
7. Salt and Black Pepper:
   Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients, particularly the cheese and olives, while black pepper adds a mild heat and complexity. Together, they help bring out the natural flavors of the salad and dressing, ensuring a harmonious taste in every bite.

Key Salad Ingredients

1. Iceberg Lettuce:
   The crisp texture and fresh crunch of iceberg lettuce are crucial for providing a refreshing base for the 1905 Salad. Its neutral flavor allows the more robust ingredients to shine while offering a satisfying, hydrating crunch that contrasts with the richness of the cheese and dressing.
2. Tomatoes:
   The choice of tomatoes is important to ensure the right balance of sweetness and acidity. Plum or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for their juiciness and bright flavor. Their slight tartness complements the salad’s savory elements, while their sweetness balances the dressing’s acidity.
3. Swiss Cheese:
   Swiss cheese is preferred in this salad because of its nutty, mild flavor and smooth texture. It adds a subtle creaminess that contrasts with the crisp lettuce and complements the smoky ham. The cheese also provides a mild richness that pairs well with the tangy dressing.
4. Smoked Ham:
   The addition of smoked ham gives the 1905 Salad its signature depth and heartiness. The smoky, savory flavor of the ham contrasts with the fresh vegetables, while its meaty texture adds substance to the salad. The ham’s richness works harmoniously with the Worcestershire sauce and cheese.
5. Green Olives:
   Pimento-stuffed green olives provide a briny, salty contrast to the salad. Their slightly bitter flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham, while their firm texture adds an additional layer of complexity. The pimento stuffing adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the olives’ sharpness.
6. Marinated Artichoke Hearts:
   Marinated artichoke hearts contribute a tangy, earthy flavor that enhances the Mediterranean elements of the salad. Their slight acidity complements the dressing, and their tender texture contrasts with the crisp lettuce and firm cheese, providing a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
7. Parmesan or Romano Cheese:
   The sharp, salty flavor of Parmesan or Romano cheese rounds off the salad’s flavor profile. Grated finely, it adds a burst of umami that enhances the richness of the dressing and the savory elements like ham and olives. It also provides a final layer of indulgence, making the salad feel complete and well-balanced.

How to Make the 1905 Salad

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Dressing

1. Gather the Ingredients:
   Start by assembling the ingredients for the dressing:
   • ½ cup of olive oil
   • 4 cloves of minced garlic
   • 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
   • 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
   • ¼ cup of white wine vinegar
   • Juice of 1 lemon
   • ½ teaspoon of salt
   • ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
2. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a medium-sized bowl, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the bowl while continuously whisking. The key is to add the olive oil gradually, which helps emulsify the dressing.
3. Whisk Until Emulsified:
   Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the mixture is well emulsified. The dressing should have a slightly thickened, uniform texture, with the oil and vinegar fully combined. If the oil and vinegar separate, continue whisking until they come together again. The emulsification process ensures that the dressing clings to the salad ingredients evenly, enhancing the flavor of every bite.

Tips for Achieving a Well-Emulsified Dressing:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can make it harder to emulsify the dressing. Allow the olive oil and other ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Whisk Continuously: A steady whisking motion helps blend the oil and vinegar together, creating a stable emulsion.
• Use a Blender or Food Processor: If you’re having trouble emulsifying the dressing by hand, use a blender or food processor for a more consistent result.

Storing the Dressing for Future Use:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week.
• Shake Before Use: If the dressing separates after storing, simply shake or whisk it again before using. This will re-emulsify the oil and vinegar.
• Freezing the Dressing: While it’s not ideal to freeze oil-based dressings, if needed, the dressing can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Assembling the Salad

Preparing the Lettuce: Ensuring Maximum Crunch

1. Select a Fresh Head of Iceberg Lettuce:
   Iceberg lettuce is key to the 1905 Salad because of its crispy texture. Select a fresh head of lettuce that feels firm and has bright green outer leaves.
2. Chop the Lettuce:
   Rinse the lettuce under cold water and dry it thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece maintains its crispness. Keeping the pieces uniform in size ensures even distribution of ingredients in every bite.
3. Store the Lettuce Properly:
   If not using the lettuce immediately, store it in an airtight container or wrapped in a paper towel inside a zip-top bag. This will help keep the lettuce fresh and crisp.

Cutting and Preparing the Other Ingredients

1. Tomatoes:
   Select ripe, juicy tomatoes, such as plum or vine-ripened tomatoes. Cut the tomatoes into wedges or chunks, depending on your preference. Ensure the pieces are large enough to maintain their structure when tossed with the dressing.
2. Swiss Cheese:
   Julienne the Swiss cheese into thin strips for easy integration into the salad. You want the cheese pieces to be substantial enough to contribute to the salad’s flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
3. Smoked Ham:
   Julienne or thinly slice the smoked ham into strips. The ham adds a smoky depth of flavor to the salad, and slicing it thinly ensures that it blends well with the lettuce and cheese.
4. Green Olives and Artichoke Hearts:
   Drain the pimento-stuffed green olives and cut them in half. For the marinated artichoke hearts, drain and halve them as well. These provide briny, tangy notes that balance the salad’s richness.
5. Parmesan or Romano Cheese:
   Grate or finely shave Parmesan or Romano cheese to sprinkle over the salad. This adds a final layer of sharp, salty flavor.

Tossing and Serving

How to Properly Toss the Salad to Coat Every Ingredient with Dressing

1. Start with the Lettuce:
   In a large salad bowl, add the chopped iceberg lettuce first. This provides a base for the other ingredients.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   Evenly distribute the tomatoes, Swiss cheese, smoked ham, olives, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan or Romano cheese on top of the lettuce. This layering helps ensure each ingredient gets coated with dressing during tossing.
3. Add the Dressing:
   Pour the dressing over the salad, making sure to distribute it evenly. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed to prevent overdressing the salad.
4. Toss Gently:
   Using large salad tongs or clean hands, gently toss the salad from the bottom up to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to crush the lettuce or the softer ingredients, like the tomatoes.

Timing the Toss for Optimal Texture

• Toss Right Before Serving:
  To preserve the crispness of the lettuce and prevent it from becoming soggy, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing and salad separate until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions

• As a Side Dish:
  Serve the 1905 Salad as a refreshing side with grilled meats, seafood, or light pasta dishes. Its bold flavors pair well with savory main courses.
• As a Main Course:
  Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to turn the 1905 Salad into a hearty, protein-packed meal. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete dish.
• For Entertaining:
  The 1905 Salad is perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. Serve it in a large, decorative bowl and let guests help themselves for a casual yet flavorful addition to any meal.

Tips for Customizing the 1905 Salad

Adding More Protein

1. Grilled Chicken, Shrimp, or Steak:
   To make the 1905 Salad a more filling, hearty meal, consider adding grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or steak. Grilled chicken pairs especially well with the salad’s tangy dressing and smoky ham, while shrimp brings a lighter, seafood flavor that complements the Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Steak adds a rich, savory element for those seeking a more indulgent option.
2. Additional Meat or Vegetarian Protein Options:
   You can also experiment with other meats such as turkey or prosciutto for a variation on the classic ham. For a vegetarian version, try adding tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. These plant-based proteins work well with the salad’s bold flavors and provide a hearty, protein-rich alternative.

Cheese Alternatives

1. Using Different Cheeses:
   While Swiss cheese is traditional in the 1905 Salad, you can customize the flavor by using other cheeses. Gouda offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while Provolone has a subtle sharpness that pairs well with the olives and artichokes. For a more intense flavor, try Blue cheese, which adds a pungent, tangy note that complements the salad’s rich dressing.
2. Adjusting Cheese Ratios:
   If you’re looking to lighten the salad, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using a low-fat option. Alternatively, increasing the amount of cheese makes the salad richer and heartier, perfect for cheese lovers.

Vegetable Substitutions and Additions

1. Replacing or Adding Crunchy Veggies:
   To add more texture and flavor, consider substituting or adding veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes. Cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, bell peppers bring a mild sweetness, and radishes add a peppery bite.
2. Roasted Vegetables for Unique Flavor:
   For a twist, incorporate roasted vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. These add a smoky, caramelized flavor that enhances the salad’s complexity.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Variations

1. Making the Salad Vegan:
   To make the 1905 Salad vegan, omit the smoked ham and replace the Worcestershire sauce (which contains anchovies) with a vegan alternative like soy sauce or tamari. You can also substitute Swiss cheese with vegan cheese or nut-based cheese to maintain the creaminess while keeping the salad plant-based.
2. Gluten-Free Options:
   Ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. Look for a certified gluten-free Worcestershire or use tamari as a substitute. All other ingredients in the 1905 Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy dish to adapt for those with gluten sensitivities.

Pairing the 1905 Salad with Other Dishes

Ideal Side Dishes to Serve with the 1905 Salad

1. Bread and Breadsticks:
   Serving the 1905 Salad with crusty bread or breadsticks is an excellent way to add a satisfying crunch and soak up the rich, tangy dressing. The texture of fresh bread complements the salad’s crisp lettuce and bold flavors, while its neutral taste helps balance the stronger elements like olives and cheese. Try garlic bread, ciabatta, or grissini for extra flavor.
2. Soups:
   A light soup pairs wonderfully with the 1905 Salad, enhancing its refreshing, savory qualities. Tomato bisque adds a creamy, comforting balance to the salad’s tangy dressing, while a hearty minestrone or vegetable soup complements the Mediterranean ingredients with rich, herbaceous flavors. For a cool, refreshing option, gazpacho (a chilled Spanish tomato soup) works especially well in warmer weather.
3. Light Pasta Dishes:
   Serving the 1905 Salad alongside a light pasta dish can create a harmonious meal. Consider simple, lightly dressed pasta such as aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil) or a lemony pasta primavera. These dishes won’t overpower the salad’s complex flavors but will complement the garlic, olive oil, and oregano in the dressing.

Serving the Salad as a Main Dish

1. Elevating the Salad into a More Filling Meal:
   To serve the 1905 Salad as a main course, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for additional protein. These proteins not only make the salad more substantial but also pair beautifully with the smoky ham and savory dressing. You can also add quinoa or avocado to increase the heartiness while keeping it vegetarian.
2. Pairing with Wines or Light Cocktails:
   The bold flavors of the 1905 Salad pair well with light, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a Spanish Albariño, which complement the salad’s acidity and brightness. For a red option, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir that won’t overpower the dish. If you prefer cocktails, a gin and tonic or a light, citrus-based cocktail like a mojito will highlight the salad’s fresh ingredients and tangy dressing.

Nutritional Benefits of the 1905 Salad

Macronutrients

The 1905 Salad is a well-rounded dish with a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Protein comes primarily from the smoked ham and Swiss cheese, which help make the salad filling and provide essential amino acids for muscle repair and overall health. The olive oil in the dressing contributes healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. The variety of vegetables, including lettuce, tomatoes, and artichokes, adds fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling fuller longer.

Calories

A typical serving of the 1905 Salad contains approximately 300 to 400 calories, depending on portion size and dressing amount. The cheese, ham, and olive oil are the most calorie-dense ingredients, but they provide beneficial nutrients alongside their energy content.

Vitamins and Minerals

The 1905 Salad is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes and artichokes provide Vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin. The iceberg lettuce offers a good source of Vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health. The Swiss cheese adds calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Additionally, the olive oil in the dressing provides antioxidants and healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.

Tips for Making it Healthier

To reduce fat, consider using lower-calorie cheese or reducing the amount of olive oil in the dressing. You can also boost the fiber content by adding more vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, making the salad even more filling without significantly increasing calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the 1905 Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients in advance. Store the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and other ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

What type of ham should I use for the salad?

Use a high-quality smoked ham for the best flavor. Varieties like Black Forest or honey-smoked ham work well, but you can substitute with prosciutto or turkey ham for different flavor profiles.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can use Romaine, butter lettuce, or mixed greens as alternatives. Romaine will provide a similar crisp texture, while butter lettuce offers a softer, more delicate crunch. Mixed greens add a variety of textures but may be less crisp than iceberg.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

If the salad has already been tossed with dressing, it’s best to consume it within a day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the dressing and salad separate if you plan to store them longer.

How long will the dressing last in the fridge?

The dressing will last up to one week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Shake or whisk before use, as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The 1905 Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines crisp textures with bold Mediterranean flavors. Its unique blend of fresh vegetables, smoked ham, Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing makes it a classic that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. Whether served as is or customized with additional proteins, different cheeses, or extra veggies, the 1905 Salad offers endless possibilities. We encourage you to try the recipe and explore your own variations—whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty meal, this salad is sure to satisfy.

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