Why It’s Called “1905”
The name pays homage to the year The Columbia Restaurant was founded — making it the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Florida. The 1905 Salad became a signature dish decades later and has remained a favorite thanks to its bold flavors and unique presentation.
Why You’ll Love the 1905 Salad
🥗 Restaurant-quality at home – No reservations required
⏱️ Quick to make – Toss it together in 15 minutes or less
🧄 Flavor-packed dressing – Tangy, garlicky, and unforgettable
🥩 Hearty and satisfying – Thanks to ham, cheese, and olives
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup ham, julienned (or diced)
1/2 cup Swiss cheese, julienned (or shredded)
1/4 cup green Spanish olives, sliced
1–2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges or chunks
1/4 cup grated Romano cheese (optional but traditional)
For the Dressing:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. (Or shake everything up in a mason jar — Columbia-style!)
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine chopped iceberg lettuce, ham, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, and olives.
Step 3: Dress & Toss
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Finish with Romano
Sprinkle Romano cheese on top for a salty, nutty finish.
Tips & Variations
🐓 Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
🧀 No Swiss? Try provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.
🧄 Milder garlic flavor: Let the garlic soak in the dressing longer, or use roasted garlic for a sweeter bite.
🥖 Serve with Cuban bread for the full Columbia Restaurant experience.
A Salad That Tells a Story
The 1905 Salad is proof that a salad doesn’t have to be boring. With its roots in Tampa’s culinary history, this dish brings bold, zesty flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s the perfect marriage of fresh produce, cured meats, sharp cheeses, and that unforgettable homemade dressing.
Whether you’re paying tribute to Florida’s food scene or simply in need of a standout salad, the 1905 Salad will leave a lasting impression—just as it has for over a century.
