1905 salad recipe from columbia restaurant

The Story Behind Columbia Restaurant’s Famous 1905 Salad

The 1905 Salad, a signature dish from Tampa’s historic Columbia Restaurant, has been a beloved favorite for generations. This iconic salad features a unique blend of crisp iceberg lettuce, baked ham, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, olives, Romano cheese, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a distinctive dressing that sets it apart.

What Makes the 1905 Salad So Special?

The 1905 Salad’s enduring appeal lies in its carefully balanced flavors and textures. It’s a complex combination of salty, savory, and slightly tangy elements, all working together in harmony. The combination of iceberg lettuce, known for its crunch, and the richness of the ham and Swiss cheese, creates an experience that is both refreshing and satisfying. The unique dressing, a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano, is the key to its signature taste.

The History of the Recipe

The salad’s creation is often attributed to Casimiro Hernandez Sr., whose family founded Columbia Restaurant in 1905. Worcestershire sauce, a key ingredient, adds a depth of umami flavor that complements the other ingredients. While the precise origins are shrouded in a bit of legend, the salad has become synonymous with the restaurant and a symbol of Tampa’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients and Preparation

While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, home cooks have developed versions that capture the essence of the original. Here’s a general guideline for recreating a 1905-inspired salad:

• Iceberg Lettuce: The base of the salad, providing a crisp and refreshing texture.
• Baked Ham: Diced into small pieces, adding a savory and salty element.
• Swiss Cheese: Cubed, offering a creamy and slightly nutty flavor.
• Tomatoes: Chopped, bringing a touch of sweetness and acidity.
• Olives: Pimento-stuffed green olives, adding a briny flavor.
• Romano Cheese: Grated, providing a sharp and salty note.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A key ingredient for the dressing’s unique flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and acidity.
• Garlic: Minced, for a pungent and savory kick.
• Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, contributing richness.
• Oregano: Adds an herbal element to the dressing.

The dressing is typically whisked together separately and then tossed with the remaining ingredients just before serving. The salad is often prepared tableside at the Columbia Restaurant, adding to the dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of lettuce is used in the 1905 Salad?

The traditional 1905 Salad uses crisp iceberg lettuce as its base.

What is the dressing made of for the 1905 Salad?

The dressing includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano.

Can I make the 1905 Salad at home?

Yes, many home cooks have adapted recipes that capture the essence of the 1905 Salad. Finding the right balance of ingredients is key.

Where did the 1905 Salad originate?

The 1905 Salad originated at the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida.

Is the 1905 Salad dressing vegan?

No, traditional Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies. To make it vegan, substitute with a vegan Worcestershire sauce alternative.

In Summary

The Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a culinary tradition. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, and its rich history tied to Tampa’s iconic restaurant, it continues to be a beloved dish for locals and visitors alike.