Columbia Restaurant 1905 Salad Recipe: A Tampa Bay Classic
The Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is a signature dish, renowned for its unique blend of flavors and creamy garlic dressing. This iconic salad features a mix of iceberg lettuce, ham, Swiss cheese, olives, tomatoes, Romano cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, all brought together by their famous dressing.
The History of the 1905 Salad
The Columbia Restaurant, founded in 1905 by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., is Florida’s oldest restaurant and a Tampa Bay institution. While the exact origins of the 1905 Salad are debated, the family credits it to Casimiro Hernandez, Jr. who refined the recipe over time, eventually arriving at the version served today. The salad has become a culinary staple, representing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. More about Columbia Restaurant on Wikipedia.
Key Ingredients of the 1905 Salad
The 1905 Salad’s distinct taste comes from a careful combination of ingredients:
- Lettuce: Typically, shredded iceberg lettuce forms the base, providing a crisp, refreshing texture.
- Ham: Julienne-cut baked ham adds a salty and savory element.
- Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese, also julienned, contributes a nutty and slightly sweet counterpoint to the ham.
- Olives: Spanish olives bring a briny and slightly bitter note.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness.
- Romano Cheese: Grated Romano cheese provides a sharp, salty, and pungent flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce enhances the umami notes.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity.
The Famous 1905 Salad Dressing
The dressing is the heart of the 1905 Salad. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, it is generally believed to be a creamy garlic dressing with a hint of olive oil, vinegar, and spices. Many home cooks have attempted to recreate the dressing, and variations abound, but the key is to achieve a balance of garlic, acidity, and richness. It is traditionally prepared tableside and tossed vigorously to combine all the flavors.
How to Make Your Own Version of the 1905 Salad
While the official recipe remains a secret, you can create a delicious approximation at home:
- Prepare the ingredients: Shred the lettuce, julienne the ham and Swiss cheese, dice the tomatoes, and slice the olives. Grate the Romano cheese.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar (red wine or white), minced garlic, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, ham, Swiss cheese, olives, and tomatoes.
- Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all ingredients are coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Romano cheese.
- Serve immediately: The salad is best served fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1905 Salad
What kind of lettuce is in the 1905 salad?
The 1905 Salad typically uses shredded iceberg lettuce as its base.
What kind of dressing is on the 1905 salad?
The dressing is a creamy garlic dressing, often described as a blend of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and spices.
What is the history of the 1905 salad?
The salad originated at the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, around 1905, and is believed to have been refined by Casimiro Hernandez, Jr.
What cheese is in the 1905 salad?
The 1905 Salad contains both Swiss cheese and Romano cheese.
Does the Columbia Restaurant still make the 1905 salad?
Yes, the Columbia Restaurant still serves the 1905 Salad, and it remains one of their most popular menu items.
Summary
The Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a Tampa Bay tradition. While the exact recipe remains a secret, understanding the key ingredients and the essence of the creamy garlic dressing allows you to create a delicious homage to this iconic dish at home. Enjoy!
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