Octopus salad

Octopus salad - a marine indulgence

Of course, in Mediterranean cuisine, octopus salad is among the most beloved dishes. It is a savory appetizer, full of flavors and textures, evoking memories of summers spent by the sea. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings with friends or a romantic dinner. Let's discover together how to prepare an octopus salad worthy of the finest meals!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes (in a pressure cooker)
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:
- 1 frozen octopus, about 2 kg
- 1 head of garlic
- 300-400 ml of vinegar (to taste)
- 400 ml of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Dried oregano, for flavor

A brief story about octopus
The octopus is a symbolic ingredient in kitchens around the world, respected for its delicate texture and rich flavor. When prepared correctly, octopus becomes so tender that it melts in your mouth. Over time, octopus has been associated with festive meals and moments of conviviality, bringing people together to savor truly memorable dishes.

Step 1: Preparing the octopus
We start by placing the frozen octopus in a pressure cooker. Add about 5 cups of water - enough to prevent burning. Make sure to use a pot of suitable size, as the octopus will expand during boiling. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat. When the pot's valve starts to whistle, let it simmer on low heat for 45 minutes.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to check if the octopus is cooked, poke it with a fork. If it goes in easily, it's ready!
- If you prefer fresh octopus, remember to freeze it for a few days before cooking to achieve a softer texture.

Step 2: Preparing the ingredients
After the octopus has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool in a colander. In the meantime, peel the garlic head and grate it. Garlic adds an intense flavor to our salad, so make sure to choose fresh, quality garlic.

Step 3: Cutting the octopus
Once the octopus has cooled, remove the dark skin. Then, cut it into small pieces - the size depends on personal preference, but smaller pieces are easier to enjoy. Place the cut octopus in a large bowl.

Step 4: Assembling the salad
Add the grated garlic to the bowl with the octopus, then add the olive oil and vinegar. It's important for the salad to be well coated with oil and vinegar, so adjust the quantities according to your taste. Mix the ingredients well so that the flavors combine harmoniously. Don't forget to add salt and oregano to taste - these will further enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Serving
The octopus salad is delicious on its own, but it can be served alongside a potato salad or boiled potatoes. These simple sides will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the octopus. If you don't consume all the salad, don't worry! You can store the leftovers in jars, and then freeze them for later enjoyment.

Customized version
If you want to add a note of freshness, try adding some halved cherry tomatoes or green olives, which bring a pleasant contrast of flavors. You can also add a little lemon juice for an extra touch of acidity.

Calories and nutritional benefits
Octopus salad is a healthy option, rich in protein and low in calories. Octopus is an excellent source of omega-3, vitamins, and essential minerals. A serving of 150 g of cooked octopus contains about 150 calories and is an ideal choice for those following a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use fresh octopus?
Yes, but make sure to freeze it beforehand to achieve a softer texture.

2. What other sides go well with octopus salad?
Besides potatoes, you can try a fresh green salad or rice with vegetables.

3. How can I store octopus salad?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze them for later use.

With this octopus salad recipe, you will surely impress all your loved ones. So gather the ingredients and enjoy a delicious meal, full of flavors and beautiful memories! Enjoy your meal!