Photo from pinterest.com
Croatian Octopus Salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days. This Mediterranean delicacy is popular along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, where fresh seafood plays a key role in local cuisine. The salad combines tender octopus with olive oil, lemon, and a medley of fresh vegetables, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
2.2 lb (1 kg) octopus, cleaned
0.4 lb (180 g) red onion, finely chopped
0.5 lb (225 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
0.3 lb (135 g) cucumber, diced
0.25 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (30 ml)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (30 ml)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: capers or olives for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Octopus: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Submerge the octopus and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, until the octopus is tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, remove from the pot, let it cool slightly, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the octopus is cooking, chop the red onion, tomatoes, and cucumber. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Combine the Salad: Add the chopped octopus to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Add the minced garlic and fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. Toss the ingredients gently to combine.
Marinate: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. For even better flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
Serve: Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley and optional capers or olives for extra zest.
Serving
Croatian Octopus Salad is best enjoyed cold, making it perfect for summer barbecues or as a light appetizer. Serve it alongside crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Croatian Octopus Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh seafood and vibrant vegetables in a simple yet flavorful way. The tender octopus, combined with the freshness of the vegetables and the brightness of the lemon and olive oil, creates a salad that is both satisfying and refreshing.
