Description
This refreshing Octopus Salad features tender, slow-simmered octopus combined with fresh cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and parsley, all dressed in a zesty lemon and extra virgin olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light, Mediterranean-inspired dish that can be served as an appetizer or a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Octopus Salad Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds octopus, cleaned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Octopus: Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the octopus.
- Simmer Until Tender: Add the cleaned octopus and gently simmer it for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the meat is fork-tender when tested.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the octopus from the hot water and let it cool completely. Once cooled, slice the octopus into bite-sized pieces for easier eating and better salad integration.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced octopus with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss and Chill: Gently toss all the ingredients together to evenly coat with the dressing. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Ensure the octopus is fully cooked and tender before slicing to avoid a chewy texture.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor infusion and provides a refreshing taste.
- You can substitute fresh parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning according to your preference, adding more lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
- Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
