The 1905 Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce with juicy tomato wedges, flavorful Swiss cheese, savory smoked ham, and briny green olives. Tossed together with artichoke hearts and topped with a zesty, homemade vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect option for a light meal or a side dish. The Worcestershire sauce and white wine vinegar in the dressing add a unique depth of flavor that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully. Whether for a casual lunch or a dinner starter, this salad is sure to satisfy.
The 1905 Salad is a refreshing and flavorful classic, featuring a delightful combination of crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy tomatoes, savory smoked ham, and Swiss cheese. The zesty homemade vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, creating a balanced and satisfying salad perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients needed for this fresh and delicious salad.
INGREDIENTS
- Olive oil: 1/2 cup, for the base of the dressing.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, to add a savory aroma to the vinaigrette.
- Dried oregano: 2 teaspoons, for a herby flavor in the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons, adding depth and tanginess to the dressing.
- White wine vinegar: 1/4 cup, for acidity and brightness in the salad.
- Lemon juice: Juice of 1 lemon, to enhance the freshness of the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon and 1/4 teaspoon, respectively, to season the dressing.
- Iceberg lettuce: 1 head, chopped, for the crisp base of the salad.
- Tomatoes: 2, cut into wedges, for juiciness and color.
- Swiss cheese: 1 cup, julienned, adding a creamy and nutty flavor.
- Smoked ham: 1 cup, julienned, for a savory and hearty component.
- Green olives: 1/2 cup, pimento-stuffed, for a briny bite.
- Artichoke hearts: 1 cup, quartered and halved, to provide a tender and tangy addition.
- Parmesan or Romano cheese: 1/4 cup, grated, for a final touch of flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Prepare the dressing by combining olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped iceberg lettuce, tomato wedges, julienned Swiss cheese, julienned smoked ham, pimento-stuffed green olives, and marinated artichoke hearts.
- Step 3:
- Drizzle the chilled dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until well coated and combined.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan or Romano cheese over the salad for garnish.
- Step 5:
- Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh and vibrant flavors.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the 1905 Salad immediately after tossing with the dressing to enjoy its fresh and crisp flavors. It pairs well with grilled chicken or as a side for a steak dinner.
- If you need to store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and store the dressing in a small jar for up to a week.
- To refresh leftovers, add additional fresh lettuce and tomatoes, then drizzle with the dressing just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the smoked ham and add more vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, use black olives instead of green olives in the salad.
- To make the salad even heartier, add grilled chicken slices or shrimp for a protein boost.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Alton Brown recommends using fresh, crunchy lettuce for the best texture in your salads.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests chilling the salad bowl before mixing the ingredients to keep everything cold and fresh.
- Chef Bobby Flay advises lightly toasting the cheese for an extra layer of flavor before tossing it into the salad.