FoodieAtlas Logo
FoodieAtlas Recipes around the World

Salată De Boeuf

Salată De Boeuf – traditional Romanian vegetable salad
Romania
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Diced tender beef mingles with crisp vegetables and tangy pickles under a luxurious mayonnaise and sour cream coating. This salad evolved as Romania's answer to elaborate holiday feasts, gaining prominence as a signature New Year's Eve appetizer. The dish combines boiled ingredients for purity of flavor with a sophisticated creamy dressing that binds them together. Its appearance on celebration tables marks the beginning of special occasions and festive gatherings.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~320 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 pound beef stew meat or beef tenderloin
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup pickles, diced (e.g., gherkins or dill pickles)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the beef and cook for about 1-1.5 hours, or until tender. Remove the beef, let it cool, and then dice it into small cubes.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot of boiling water, add the diced potatoes and carrots. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Add the peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Drain the vegetables and let them cool.

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced beef, cooked potatoes, carrots, peas, and pickles.

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Gently fold the dressing into the beef and vegetable mixture until everything is well coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Salată De Boeuf?

Salată De Boeuf is a traditional Romanian salad made with diced cooked beef, boiled vegetables, and tangy pickles, all bound together with a creamy mayonnaise and sour cream dressing.

Where does Salată De Boeuf come from?

Salată De Boeuf is a Romanian creation that became popular as a festive dish, particularly associated with New Year's Eve celebrations and holiday gatherings.

What are the main ingredients in Salată De Boeuf?

Key ingredients include beef, potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard.

Any tips for making the best Salată De Boeuf?

Cook all ingredients separately so they remain distinct. Mix dressing gently to avoid mashing vegetables. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld together.

What do you serve with Salată De Boeuf?

Serve as an appetizer or side dish with crusty bread, alongside roasted meats, or as part of a holiday spread.

More Romania Recipes →