Octopus with cherry tomatoes and capers

Mediterranean Octopus with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers – A Simple and Delicious Delicacy

If you dream of a culinary experience that transports you directly to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, then this recipe for octopus with cherry tomatoes and capers is exactly what you’re looking for. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also full of intense flavors, providing you with a refined meal, perfect for a special dinner or to impress your guests. Additionally, octopus is an excellent source of protein and low in calories, making it a healthy choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium octopus (or 6 small octopuses)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 20-25 cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of capers
- 1-2 glasses of white wine
- Salt, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Chili pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing

Preparing the octopus:

1. Preparing the octopus: Start by washing the octopus well under cold running water. If you’re using a larger octopus, cut it into portions. If you have small octopuses, you can leave them whole. After washing, place them on paper towels to absorb excess water.

2. Cooking the garlic: In a deep pan, add a little olive oil and put the whole garlic cloves to sauté. The heat will release the wonderful aromas of the garlic, so don’t rush – let it turn slightly golden, but don’t burn it, as it will become bitter.

3. Adding the octopus: Once the garlic has taken on a golden hue, add the pieces of octopus to the pan. Sauté them over high heat for 2-3 minutes to seal in the juices and develop a light crust.

4. Deglazing with wine: After the octopus has sautéed, add the white wine. This step is essential as the wine will add depth and flavor to the dish. Let it boil for 5 minutes so that the alcohol evaporates and the flavors intensify.

5. Adding the tomatoes and capers: Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters and add them to the pan. Use a fork to gently crush them so that the juice mixes with the other ingredients. Add capers, salt, and oregano to taste. Cover the pan and let the dish simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. Remember that the octopus will release water, and the sauce will gradually reduce.

6. Finishing the dish: Check the consistency of the sauce periodically. At the end, add chili pepper to taste and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the pan from the heat.

7. Serving: The octopus with cherry tomatoes and capers is delicious served warm, alongside a side of rice or mashed potatoes. You can also add freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the octopus: Opt for fresh octopus from reliable sources. If using frozen octopus, make sure to completely thaw it before cooking.
- White wine: Choose a quality dry white wine, as the quality of the wine reflects in the final dish.
- Don’t overcook the octopus: Cook the octopus over medium heat, as keeping it on the heat for too long will make it tough.

Nutritional information:

Octopus is a rich source of protein, low in fat and calories, making it an excellent choice for those who want to stay fit. It also contains essential minerals such as zinc, copper, and selenium, beneficial for immune system health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I add other vegetables? Of course! You can add black olives or even diced zucchini for extra flavor.
- What drinks pair well? A dry white wine is ideal, but you can also opt for fresh lemonade or a seafood cocktail.
- Can I replace the octopus with another fish? Yes, you can use calamari or white fish, but the cooking time will vary.

A personal note:

This recipe for octopus with cherry tomatoes and capers is one of my family’s favorites, reminding us of the evenings spent by the sea, enjoying delicious dishes. Every bite is a culinary journey that connects us to cherished memories. So, don’t hesitate to personalize your recipe and bring a touch of your story to the plate. Enjoy your meal!