Easy 1905 Salad Recipe: Classic Columbia Restaurant Copycat

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Are you looking for a classic salad recipe that is super flavorful and quick to prepare? This Easy 1905 Salad Recipe, inspired by the Columbia Restaurant, combines crisp iceberg lettuce, savory ham, and tangy Swiss cheese with a zesty homemade dressing.

A restaurant inspired tossed salad with ham, tomatoes, spanish olives, iceberg lettuce, swiss cheese, romano cheese, and dressing on a black plate

The 1905 Salad is a famous dish originating from the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida. Created by waiter Tony Noriega in the 1940s and added to the menu in the 1970s, this salad features a unique combination of ingredients and a distinctive dressing that has made it a renowned favorite.

Why We Love This Recipe:

Classic Flavors: The combination of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, savory ham, and tangy cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and a quick assembly, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner.
Versatile: This salad can be served as a main dish or a side, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Healthy and Delicious: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein, it's a nutritious and satisfying choice.

If you like this salad recipe, you may also love our Healthy Cobb Salad Recipe for Meal Prep or our Easy Italian Chopped Salad Recipe.

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What Ingredients Will You Need?
Instructions
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
How Should You Store This?
What Are Some Expert Tips?
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Frequently Asked Questions
📖 Recipe
Important Food Safety Tips
💬 Share Your Thoughts

What Ingredients Will You Need?

Iceberg Lettuce: Provides a crisp and refreshing base for the salad.
Roma Tomatoes: Adds juicy sweetness to the mix.
Deli Ham: Offers a meaty flavor.
Baby Swiss Cheese: Adds a mild, creamy texture.
Romano Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty finish.
Green Olives: Brings a briny, tangy element to the salad.
Salt and Pepper: For added flavor.

Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The foundation for the dressing's rich flavor.
White Wine Vinegar: Adds a delicious kick.
Lemon Juice: Freshens up the dressing with a citrus flavor.
Garlic: Infuses the dressing with robust flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a unique depth and umami.
Oregano: Complements the other flavors.

Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.

Instructions

How to Make the Easy 1905 Salad Recipe

STEP ONE: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Chop the iceberg lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl. Dice the Roma tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Julienne the deli ham and baby Swiss cheese, then add them to the salad.

Grate the Romano cheese and slice the green olives, then add these to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

STEP TWO: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano until well combined.

STEP THREE: Combine the Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss the salad gently so all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

STEP FOUR: Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, classic salad.

What Are Some Good Substitutions?

Lettuce: You can use romaine or a mix of greens if you prefer.
Ham: Substitute with turkey.
Cheese: The classic recipe uses ham and swiss cheese, but you can try using provolone or cheddar.

How Can You Change This Recipe Up?

Add Protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added for extra protein.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.

What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?

Large salad bowl
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting Board

How Should You Store This?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What Are Some Expert Tips?

Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.

Chill the salad for a few minutes before serving for a refreshing taste.

Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the lettuce.

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Have Leftover Ingredients?

Use leftover ham in a ham and cheese sandwich.
Add leftover Swiss cheese to an omelette.
Use extra Romano cheese into Bucatini Cacio e Pepe.

Need Something To Pair This With?

Serve with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Pair with a cup of Spanish bean soup for a hearty lunch.
Enjoy with a crusty baguette.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the 1905 Salad?

The 1905 Salad originated at the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, created by waiter Tony Noriega in the 1940s and added to the menu in the 1970s.

What ingredients are in the Columbia Restaurant 1905 Salad dressing?

The dressing includes extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano.

Can I make the 1905 Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but it's best to store them separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.

📖 Recipe

Enjoy this classic 1905 Salad as a refreshing and flavorful addition to your meal lineup. Whether you're serving it as a main dish or a side, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Don't forget to share this recipe!

Important Food Safety Tips

Keep salad ingredients and dressing refrigerated until ready to serve. Wash hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the salad.

Wash hands and create a clean work area.
Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.

See more guidelines at USDA.gov

Easy 1905 Salad Recipe: Classic Columbia Restaurant Copycat

What Ingredients Will You Need?