Looking for a timeless salad packed with bold flavor, satisfying textures, and a nostalgic touch? The 1905 Salad, originally served at the iconic Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern freshness. With crispy lettuce, savory ham, tangy olives, and a signature garlic vinaigrette, this dish isn’t just a salad—it’s a Floridian classic with a story.
🛒 Ingredients for the Authentic 1905 Salad
To recreate the 1905 Salad at home, you’ll need a selection of fresh vegetables, flavorful deli ingredients, and pantry staples for the dressing. These ingredients come together to deliver a satisfying combination of crunch, saltiness, and zest.
🥗 For the Salad Base:
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
½ cup Swiss cheese, julienned
½ cup ham, julienned (or turkey for a lighter version)
¼ cup green Spanish olives, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, diced
½ cup Romano cheese, grated
🥄 For the 1905 Salad Dressing:
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup white wine vinegar
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp minced garlic
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pro Tip: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic for the best flavor in your dressing.
👨🍳 How to Make 1905 Salad at Home – Step-by-Step
The beauty of the 1905 Salad lies in its simplicity and balance. Here’s how to prepare this vibrant and satisfying dish:
1️⃣ Prep the Salad Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, add:
Chopped iceberg lettuce
Julienne-cut Swiss cheese and ham
Sliced green olives and diced tomatoes
Grated Romano cheese
Mix the ingredients gently to evenly distribute the toppings.
2️⃣ Whisk the Tangy 1905 Salad Dressing
In a separate bowl or small jar, combine the dressing ingredients:
Olive oil
White wine vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
Lemon juice
Minced garlic
Oregano, salt, and pepper
Whisk or shake until the mixture is fully emulsified. This zesty vinaigrette brings everything together and is essential to the 1905 Salad’s signature taste.
3️⃣ Toss & Combine
Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything without bruising the lettuce or tomatoes.
4️⃣ Serve Fresh
Serve immediately with an optional sprinkle of extra Romano cheese on top. Enjoy as a main course or a flavorful side dish.
🧀 Why the 1905 Salad Is So Popular
The 1905 Salad isn’t just a meal—it’s part of Florida’s culinary heritage. Originally created in the early 1900s by the Columbia Restaurant, this dish became an instant favorite due to its:
Bold flavors from the garlic-heavy vinaigrette
Satisfying texture from crunchy lettuce and firm cheeses
Versatile protein options like ham or turkey
Ease of preparation, making it ideal for weeknights or special gatherings
Whether you’re recreating a restaurant classic or trying it for the first time, the 1905 Salad will not disappoint.
🥗 Serving Tips & Variations for 1905 Salad
Add avocado slices for a creamy, modern twist.
Use turkey or grilled chicken instead of ham for a leaner version.
For an extra crunch, toss in toasted almonds or croutons.
Serve it with Cuban bread and butter for the full Columbia experience.
This salad pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled meats, or even a light pasta.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 1905 Salad
Can I make the 1905 Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and dressing separately. Combine everything just before serving to keep the texture fresh.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! The dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
Is this 1905 Salad keto or low-carb?
While the dressing and proteins are low-carb, iceberg lettuce is carb-friendly, and you can skip the tomatoes and olives if needed.
🔗 Related Recipes to Complement Your 1905 Salad
If you’re a fan of vibrant, restaurant-inspired salads like this Classic 1905 Salad, don’t miss our Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing — it’s packed with Mediterranean flavors and refreshing textures. You might also enjoy the 🌿 Mediterranean Halloumi & Zucchini Rice Bowl for a heartier, protein-rich option that still feels light and wholesome. These dishes make the perfect companions to your salad lineup, whether you’re planning a weekend lunch or a full dinner spread.
For more ideas, don’t miss our full salad recipe collection that covers everything from quick weekday lunches to elegant dinner sides.
🌐 Explore the History Behind the 1905 Salad
Did you know the 1905 Salad was named after the year the Columbia Restaurant was founded? This legendary establishment is Florida’s oldest restaurant, and it continues to serve its iconic salad to this day.
To learn more about its origins and how the recipe has evolved, visit the official Columbia Restaurant website, where you’ll find stories, original menus, and even behind-the-scenes videos showcasing how they prepare this classic dish.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just curious about Florida cuisine, it’s worth checking out their collection of historic recipes and culinary traditions.
🙌 Final Thoughts
The Classic 1905 Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a flavorful journey through history inspired by the vibrant spirit of Florida. With its perfect balance of zesty freshness and tangy delight, this salad adds a special touch to any meal or gathering. Give it a try today and share your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family to spread the joy. Thank you for visiting and cooking with us at YummyPlat!