Welcome to the vibrant world of the Columbia 1905 Salad, a true Tampa Classic renowned for its fresh ingredients and unforgettable flavor. Celebrated by USA Today as one of America’s Top 10 best salads, this culinary masterpiece from the iconic Columbia Restaurant offers a unique blend of crisp iceberg lettuce, savory baked ham, rich Swiss cheese, perfectly ripe red tomatoes, and tangy Spanish olives. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious symphony of tastes and textures. The salad’s magic culminates in its distinctive vinaigrette, a secret blend that elevates it from a simple dish to an extraordinary dining experience, beloved by everyone who tastes it.

Many assume the “1905” in the Columbia 1905 Salad signifies the year it was created. Surprisingly, this iconic salad actually originated much later, in the 1970s. Its name pays homage to the founding year of the Columbia Restaurant, the oldest Spanish restaurant in Florida and one of the largest Spanish restaurant chains in the United States, based in the heart of Tampa Bay. Established in 1905 by Casimiro Hernandez Sr., the Columbia Restaurant has a rich legacy of offering exquisite Spanish and Cuban cuisine, and its namesake salad has become a staple, embodying the spirit and flavors of its storied past.

It’s truly remarkable how a recipe developed over five decades ago continues to captivate palates today. The enduring appeal of the Columbia Restaurant 1905 Salad speaks volumes about its timeless quality and perfect balance of ingredients. This enduring popularity solidifies its status as a beloved classic, proving that some recipes are simply destined to remain relevant and delicious through generations.

Are you a connoisseur of Restaurant Copycat Recipes? If you love recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, you’ll be thrilled to try this authentic 1905 Salad recipe. For more culinary adventures, explore these other delightful copycat salad recipes: the hearty Little King Salad, the classic Wendy’s Taco Salad, and the ever-popular Olive Garden Salad and Dressing.

From the very first bite, you’ll understand why the Columbia 1905 Salad consistently earns rave reviews. It’s more than just a salad; it’s a culinary experience that delights the senses. The combination of cool, crisp iceberg lettuce, savory pimento-stuffed Spanish olives, tender baked ham, and creamy Swiss cheese creates an exquisite flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, working together seamlessly to deliver a truly unparalleled taste. And let’s not forget the generous topping of grated Romano cheese, which, in my opinion, adds a superb, sharp, and salty kick that perfectly complements the other elements.

Beyond its incredible taste, the Columbia 1905 Salad is a wonderfully hearty and versatile dish. Thanks to the substantial protein provided by the ham and cheese, it serves as a perfectly balanced and filling main course, capable of keeping you satisfied for hours. Yet, its vibrant flavors also make it an excellent choice as a smaller, refreshing side salad alongside a lighter meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a delightful dinner, or a memorable addition to your spread, this salad adapts beautifully to any occasion, making it an indispensable recipe in your culinary repertoire.

The story of the Columbia 1905 Salad is as rich and flavorful as the salad itself. It was in the 1970s that the Columbia Restaurant, a cornerstone of Florida’s dining scene and its oldest restaurant, decided to offer a unique house salad instead of the traditional salad bar for its patrons. This decision led to the development of the now-famous 1905 Salad, though its roots stretch back further. The original concept for a similar salad was developed in the 1940s by a waiter named Tony Noriega. The Columbia Restaurant’s culinary team skillfully adapted Tony’s creation, making a few key modifications to craft their signature version. Notably, they opted to omit black olives and celery, which were part of Noriega’s initial recipe, streamlining the flavors to what we know and love today.

Given its deep ties to the restaurant’s flagship location, this distinctive salad quickly became synonymous with its home city, earning it the affectionate moniker “Tampa’s 1905 Salad.” It captured the essence of local cuisine and hospitality, solidifying its place in Tampa’s culinary identity.

A significant factor in the salad’s unique appeal is its proprietary dressing. Columbia Restaurant introduced a new vinaigrette featuring the distinct tangy notes of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce, the bright zest of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the robust saltiness of grated Romano cheese. This dressing became the essential “secret sauce” that binds all the ingredients together, creating the truly singular taste that has garnered national acclaim.

While the Columbia 1905 Salad has a relatively recent origin, the concept of mixing fresh vegetables has ancient roots. Historical evidence suggests that as far back as the first century, both ancient Greeks and Romans enjoyed dishes resembling what we now call salads. They would prepare raw vegetables, often dressed simply with vinegar, oil, and various herbs. This early form of salad highlights a timeless appreciation for fresh produce and simple, flavorful preparations, connecting our modern culinary habits to the traditions of millennia past. It underscores the enduring human desire for light, nutritious, and refreshing meals, proving that the salad has been a staple in diets across diverse cultures and historical periods.

To truly capture the essence of the Columbia Restaurant’s original 1905 Salad, selecting the right ingredients is paramount. As with any exceptional copycat recipe, the closer you adhere to the original components and quality, the more authentic and delicious your homemade version will be. Each ingredient contributes significantly to the salad’s distinct character and flavor profile.

• Crisp Iceberg Lettuce: Shredded finely, iceberg lettuce provides that essential refreshing crunch and classic base that defines the 1905 Salad. Its mild flavor ensures it doesn’t overpower the other vibrant ingredients.
• Ripe Tomatoes: Cut into eighths, or use sweet cherry or grape tomatoes for a burst of juicy flavor and a beautiful splash of color. Their natural sweetness perfectly balances the savory and tangy elements.
• Savory Swiss Cheese: Sliced and then julienned into slender strips, Swiss cheese adds a delicate, nutty flavor and a wonderful creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crisp lettuce.
• Quality Baked Ham: Also sliced and julienned, the ham contributes a hearty, smoky, and salty protein element, making the salad substantial enough to be a main course. Choose a good quality baked ham for the best flavor.
• Pimento-Stuffed Green Spanish Olives: Left whole, these olives are a cornerstone of the 1905 Salad. Their briny, tangy, and slightly fruity flavor, along with the sweet pimento, adds an indispensable Mediterranean zest.
• Freshly Grated Romano Cheese: This is a non-negotiable ingredient for authenticity. Romano cheese, with its sharp, salty, and pungent notes, is generously sprinkled over the salad, providing an umami depth that ties all the flavors together.

• White Wine Vinegar: This provides the essential acidic tang for the vinaigrette. If unavailable, champagne vinegar makes an excellent, slightly milder substitute.
• Extra-Virgin Spanish Olive Oil: Opting for Spanish olive oil maintains the authentic Mediterranean influence. If it’s hard to find, a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will still deliver excellent results.
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: Minced, fresh garlic is crucial for a vibrant flavor. While jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch, fresh cloves offer superior pungency and aroma.
• Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce: This specific brand is historically part of the original recipe and contributes a distinct savory, umami depth that is irreplaceable. Don’t skip it!
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dressing with its zesty, citrusy notes. Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always preferred for optimal flavor.
• Dried Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb, dried oregano adds an aromatic, earthy warmth that complements the other dressing ingredients beautifully.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste, ensuring the dressing is perfectly balanced to enhance, not overpower, the salad’s fresh ingredients.

Recreating the Columbia 1905 Salad at home is a rewarding experience, and with these clear instructions, you’ll be enjoying this Tampa favorite in no time.

Begin by preparing all your salad components. Finely shred the iceberg lettuce. Cut your ripe tomatoes into eighths. Slice both the Swiss cheese and baked ham into thin pieces, then julienne them into uniform, bite-sized strips. Grate the Romano cheese, setting aside a portion for the final topping. Leave the pimento-stuffed green Spanish olives whole. This careful preparation ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and easy to enjoy.

In a large salad bowl, combine all the prepared salad ingredients: the shredded iceberg lettuce, tomato wedges, julienned Swiss cheese, julienned baked ham, and whole Spanish olives. Gently toss them together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. At this stage, hold off on adding the Romano cheese, as it will be incorporated later.

To create the legendary 1905 Salad dressing, start by mincing your fresh garlic cloves. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano until well combined. Gradually add the extra-virgin Spanish olive oil, beating continuously to form a smooth emulsion. Finally, whisk in the white wine vinegar and fresh lemon juice. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting until the flavors are perfectly balanced.

The Worcestershire sauce is a cornerstone of the 1905 salad dressing, imparting a crucial layer of rich umami flavor that truly defines its character. We strongly advise against omitting it, as it contributes an irreplaceable depth that cannot be replicated by other common ingredients. If you don’t have Lea & Perrins on hand, you can find various online recipes for Worcestershire sauce substitutes that might work in a pinch, but for the authentic taste, it’s best to stick to the original or a close homemade alternative.

Just before serving, generously pour the prepared Columbia Salad dressing over the mixed salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece of lettuce, ham, and cheese is beautifully coated with the flavorful vinaigrette.

Finally, sprinkle the reserved grated Romano cheese over the dressed salad. Give it one last gentle toss to integrate the cheese, and then serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.

We’re confident this Columbia 1905 Salad will quickly become one of your absolute favorite recipes! Don’t let this incredible copycat recipe slip away. Be sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it whenever a craving strikes. Pin it now and get ready to enjoy this Tampa classic again and again!

Achieving the perfect Columbia 1905 Salad is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your homemade version rivals the restaurant’s iconic dish:

• Dress Just Before Serving: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Always pour the dressing over the salad components immediately before you plan to serve it. If you anticipate leftovers, it’s best to only dress the portion you’ll consume right away. Storing dressed salad in the fridge will inevitably lead to soggy lettuce, diminishing the delightful crispness that defines this salad.
• Thoroughly Dry Your Greens: After washing your iceberg lettuce (or any other greens you might use), ensure they are thoroughly patted dry. Excess water will dilute the dressing and prevent it from properly adhering to the leaves, leading to a less flavorful salad. A salad spinner is excellent for this task.
• Optimal Ingredient Size: Make sure all your julienned ham and Swiss cheese, as well as your tomato wedges, are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This not only makes the salad much easier and more enjoyable to eat but also ensures an even distribution of flavors in every forkful.
• Chill Your Components: For an extra refreshing experience, ensure all your salad ingredients (especially the lettuce and tomatoes) are well-chilled before assembly. A cold salad always tastes better!
• Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality ingredients. A good baked ham, flavorful Swiss cheese, and authentic pimento-stuffed Spanish olives will make a noticeable difference in the final taste.

Proper storage is key to extending the life and maintaining the quality of your homemade Columbia 1905 Salad. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but for the absolute best results and to preserve its intended texture and flavor, it is highly recommended to store the salad and the dressing separately.

Once the dressing is added to the salad, the lettuce and other components will begin to soften and can quickly become soggy if kept in the fridge for more than a few hours. To prevent this, store the undressed salad components (lettuce, ham, cheese, tomatoes, olives) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the vinaigrette in a separate sealed container. When you’re ready to enjoy another serving, simply take out the desired amount of salad, add a fresh pour of dressing, toss, and serve. This method ensures that every portion is as crisp and delicious as the first!

Q: Can I use different types of lettuce for the 1905 Salad?

A: While iceberg lettuce is traditional and provides the signature crisp texture, you can certainly experiment with other crunchy greens like romaine or a mix of spring greens. However, for an authentic taste and feel, iceberg is highly recommended.

Q: What if I can’t find extra-virgin Spanish olive oil?

A: Don’t worry! Any high-quality extra-virgin olive oil will work beautifully for the dressing. The “Spanish” recommendation is primarily for authenticity and regional flavor nuances, but a good quality EVOO will still yield a delicious result.

Q: Is the Columbia 1905 Salad healthy?

A: The 1905 Salad offers a good balance of fresh vegetables, protein from ham and cheese, and healthy fats from olive oil. While it contains some fat and calories, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal. Portion control and opting for leaner ham can help manage its nutritional profile.

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The 1905 salad dressing can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to give it a good whisk or shake before pouring over the salad, as the oil and vinegar may separate.

Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives for the ham?

A: For a vegetarian version, you could substitute the ham with smoked tofu, tempeh bacon, or even a mix of roasted chickpeas for a different textural element. While it won’t be a true copycat, it can still be a delicious and satisfying salad.

If you’ve enjoyed mastering the Columbia 1905 Salad, and especially if you’re a big fan of vibrant salads or the unique flavor of pimento-stuffed olives, you’re in for a treat! Here are even more of our favorite recipes that we know you’ll adore, perfect for expanding your culinary horizons:

• BLT Pasta Salad (pictured above) – A hearty and flavorful pasta salad marrying classic BLT ingredients with a delightful dressing.
• Olive Dip (old-fashioned stuffed celery dip) – A nostalgic and savory dip, perfect for entertaining.
• Muffuletta Sandwiches – Dive into a New Orleans classic with this robust sandwich, known for its distinctive olive salad.
• Grilled Chicken Waldorf Salad – A modern take on a timeless classic, combining tender grilled chicken with the refreshing flavors of a Waldorf salad.
• Dirty Vodka Martini – For those who appreciate the briny kick of olives, this classic cocktail is a must-try.
• Italian Raw Veggie Salad – A simple yet incredibly fresh salad bursting with raw vegetable goodness and Italian flair.
• See ALL of my Salad Recipes – Explore a wide variety of salad creations for every taste and occasion.

We truly hope that this comprehensive guide to the Columbia 1905 Salad has inspired you to bring a piece of Tampa’s culinary heritage into your own kitchen. This iconic dish, with its vibrant history and unforgettable flavors, is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. We’re confident it will quickly ascend to the top of your list of favorite recipes, becoming a go-to for family dinners, special occasions, or simply whenever you crave a fresh, hearty, and utterly delicious salad. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Rated 4.75 stars from 4 votes

Print Recipe

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

This Tampa Classic – Columbia’s Original 1905 Salad is considered one of America’s Top 10 best salads by USA Today. This flavorful salad boasts crisp lettuce, ham & Swiss cheese, red ripe tomatoes, and Spanish olives. This amazing salad is tossed in a unique vinaigrette and loved by all who enjoy it!

Prep Time
10 mins

Total Time
10 mins

Cuisine: American

Keyword: 1905 Salad, 1905 Salad dressing recipe, Columbia Restaurant, Columbia Restaurant 1905 Salad Recipe, Copycat recipe, ham, iceberg lettuce, Lea & Perrin’s Worcestershire Sauce, Spanish Olives, Swiss Cheese, Tampa’s 1905 Salad, tomatoes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 588kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

• 3 Piece Wooden Salad Set
• 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener

Ingredients

• FOR THE SALAD:
• ½ head of iceberg lettuce shredded
• 2 ripe tomatoes cut into eighths
• ½ cup Swiss cheese sliced and julienned
• ½ cup baked ham sliced and julienned
• ¼ cup pimento-stuffed green Spanish olives left whole
• 2 teaspoons grated Romano cheese
• FOR THE DRESSING:
• ⅛ cup white wine vinegar
• ¼ cup extra-virgin Spanish olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toss all of the salad ingredients, except the Romano cheese, together in a large salad bowl.
2. With a wire whisk, beat garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano together in a small bowl. Add in olive oil, beating to form an emulsion. Whisk in vinegar and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
3. To serve: pour dressing over salad and toss thoroughly. Add in the Romano cheese and toss once more before serving.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

This 1905 Columbia salad will keep for about 3 days in the fridge. For best results, store the salad undressed; once you put the dressing on it, it will get soggy much faster.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 588kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 47g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 306mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g