Are you ready to dive into an incredible salad that’s bursting with flavors and a rich history? Columbia’s 1905 Salad has been winning hearts since it first appeared on the menu of the Columbia Restaurant in Florida many decades ago.

This delightful dish combines crisp greens, tangy dressing, and a touch of Mediterranean charm.

You can enjoy it as a refreshing side or as a light main dish.

Today, I’m excited to share this classic recipe with you, making it easy to recreate at home!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Columbia’s 1905 Salad is not just any salad; it’s a celebration of freshness and flavor.

The combination of ingredients creates a vibrant mix that not only looks beautiful on your plate but also surprises your taste buds.

The dressing, made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice, provides a perfect balance of acidity and richness, enhancing the taste of the greens.

Plus, adding minced garlic and dried oregano gives it a wonderful aroma that’s truly irresistible.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, this salad is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing salad:

⅓ cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are simple, but together they create magic.

You can easily find them at any grocery store, and they come together seamlessly to form a delightful dressing.

How To Make Columbia’s 1905 Salad Recipe

Making Columbia’s 1905 Salad is a breeze.

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fantastic salad to enjoy:

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making the dressing.

In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Oregano

Next, add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the bowl.

Stir all the ingredients together to create a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Remember, you can adjust the seasonings based on your preference.

Once seasoned, set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Now it’s time to assemble the salad.

You can use your favorite greens, such as romaine or mixed salad greens.

Wash and dry the greens thoroughly, then tear them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the greens and pour the prepared dressing over the top.

Toss everything together gently to ensure all the leaves are well coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, and it’s ready to go! You can serve this salad right away or let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors develop further.

Expert Tips

To make your salad even better, consider these expert tips:

Use fresh garlic for more flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can roast the garlic before adding it.
Feel free to mix in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for added crunch and nutrition.
Try adding some protein, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, to turn this salad into a hearty meal.
For a unique flavor twist, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean flair.

Variations and Customizations

This salad is incredibly versatile.

Here are some variations you can try:

Swap the greens with spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Add nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for an extra crunch.
Include fruits like apple slices or berries for a sweet contrast to the savory dressing.
Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.

These variations can help you adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover salad, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

However, keep in mind that the greens may wilt if they are mixed with the dressing.

To maintain freshness, you can store the dressing separately from the greens.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, just combine them again for a quick meal.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the greens ahead of time.

Just store them separately to keep the greens crisp until you’re ready to serve.

What type of greens work best for this salad?

Romaine lettuce is traditionally used, but you can also use mixed greens, spinach, or even kale, depending on your preference.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar is recommended for its tangy flavor, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar or Grape juice vinegar if you prefer.

Is there a substitute for olive oil?

If you’d like, you can use another high-quality oil such as avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil.

However, olive oil provides a unique flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

Conclusion

Columbia’s 1905 Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together crispy greens and a zesty dressing.

With its vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or just a refreshing meal for yourself.

By following the recipe and tips provided, you can create this iconic salad at home and impress both your taste buds and your loved ones.

So, get your ingredients ready and dive into the wonderful world of flavors that this salad has to offer.

Enjoy your culinary adventure!