Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with a tangy garlic vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or a light lunch. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crisp iceberg lettuce, savory chicken ham, and zesty dressing creates an explosion of flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a refreshing starter or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this salad is not just tasty but also healthy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique taste and colorful presentation, Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad effectively, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the dressing ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to emulsify the dressing ingredients, ensuring they blend well for maximum flavor.
• Knife: A good sharp knife allows for precise cuts of vegetables and meats, enhancing the salad’s presentation.

Ingredients

Columbia’s 1905 Salad features crisp iceberg lettuce with julienne baked chicken ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, olives, grated Romano cheese, all tossed in a flavorful garlic vinaigrette dressing.

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white apple vinegar
• 2 tsp oregano (dried)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Salad

• 1 head iceberg lettuce (torn into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 ripe tomato (cut into eighths)
• 1 cup Swiss cheese (julienned)
• 1 cup chicken ham (julienned)
• 8 ounces Spanish olives with pimentos
• 1/4 cup Romano cheese

How to Make Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In your mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Pour in the olive oil and white apple vinegar.
2. Add dried oregano, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad serving bowl:
1. Place torn iceberg lettuce as the base.
2. Add cut tomatoes evenly over the lettuce.
3. Sprinkle julienned Swiss cheese and chicken ham on top.
4. Distribute Spanish olives over the salad.

Step 3: Finish with Cheese and Dressing

Finally:
1. Sprinkle grated Romano cheese across the top of the salad.
2. Drizzle your prepared dressing generously over all ingredients.
3. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated before serving.

Enjoy Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad as an exquisite addition to any meal!

How to Serve Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is versatile and can complement various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• You can enjoy the salad as a light main course. Its protein-rich ingredients make it satisfying on their own.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. The flavors of the meat harmonize well with the garlic vinaigrette.

For a Picnic

• Pack Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad in individual containers for a refreshing picnic option. It’s easy to serve and eat outdoors.

At Family Gatherings

• Serve this salad at gatherings or potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds color to the table and pleases various palates.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include it in a buffet spread alongside other dishes. Its vibrant ingredients make it visually appealing and delicious.

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How to Perfect Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

To ensure you create the perfect Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and quality cheese elevate the flavor.
• Chill your salad: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance taste and texture.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to customize the garlic vinaigrette according to your preference for tanginess or richness.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or avocados for added flavor and nutrition.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy the salad right after mixing to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
• Customize portions: Adjust ingredient quantities based on serving size needs, maintaining the balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty bread complements the salad’s vinaigrette perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds nutrition and color to your meal.
3. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savory salad.
4. Black Beans and Rice: This classic Cuban dish makes for a filling side that balances flavors well.
5. Cuban Sandwiches: A mini Cuban sandwich offers a hearty addition alongside the lightness of the salad.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch that’s enjoyable with every bite.
7. Potato Chips: Simple yet satisfying, crunchy chips add texture when enjoyed with the fresh salad.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix provides a sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with savory notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Garlic Vinaigrette: The garlic vinaigrette is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, make sure to mix it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
• Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the other flavors. Start with a little and add more if needed.
• Not Chilling Ingredients: For the best taste, use chilled ingredients. This enhances freshness and makes the salad more enjoyable.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese can ruin the salad’s flavor. Opt for good-quality Swiss and Romano cheese for a delightful taste.
• Ignoring Freshness: Always use fresh vegetables. Wilted lettuce or overripe tomatoes can detract from your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

• Not Recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal due to its fresh ingredients.
• Texture Loss: Freezing may change the texture of vegetables and cheese.

Reheating Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Use medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pan, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad that might help you refine your recipe skills:

What is Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad?

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is a classic Cuban salad featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, julienne chicken ham, Swiss cheese, and a tangy garlic vinaigrette dressing.

Can I customize Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad?

Yes! You can add extra vegetables or substitute proteins based on your preferences, making it versatile and adaptable.

How do I make the garlic vinaigrette?

Combine olive oil, white apple vinegar, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Is Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad healthy?

With fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes, this salad can be part of a balanced diet. It does contain fats from cheese and olive oil but offers good nutrients as well.

Final Thoughts

Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad is not only refreshing but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that can be adjusted to suit various tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it as a meal on its own, this salad shines in its versatility. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients or dressings to make it your own!