Salads like this one are found all over Puglia, almost always with carrot, celery, and parsley (we suspect the locals like the combination as much for its gorgeous color contrast with the octopus as for its freshness and crunch) and lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon.
Octopus salad, without parsley, can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Stir in parsley just before serving.
Recipe information
Total Time
2 hr
Yield
Makes 8 (as part of antipasti) servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Cut off and discard head of octopus, then cut tentacles into 1-inch pieces. Generously cover octopus with water in a heavy medium pot and gently simmer, uncovered, until tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 2
Drain octopus in a colander and cool to room temperature, then transfer to a bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and additional sea salt to taste.
Step 3
Let stand 30 minutes for flavors to develop.
Recipe notes
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