Dive into the flavors of the Adriatic with our tantalizing Croatian Octopus Salad. Tender, marinated octopus is the star of this dish, perfectly complemented by a medley of vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs. Savor the freshness of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy olives, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette that enhances every bite. This refreshing salad captures the essence of coastal Croatia, offering a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that will transport you to sun-kissed shores with every mouthful. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a tantalizing appetizer, our Croatian Octopus Salad is sure to awaken your senses and leave you longing for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium octopus (about 2 pounds)
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1- Prepare the octopus by cleaning it thoroughly. Remove the beak, eyes, and any remaining entrails. Rinse under cold water.

2- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the octopus and cook for about 45-60 minutes or until tender. You can check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the octopus with a fork; it should be tender.

3- Once cooked, remove the octopus from the pot and let it cool slightly. Then, chop the octopus into bite-sized pieces.

4- In the same pot of boiling water, add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool.

5- In a large bowl, combine the chopped octopus, cooked potatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

6- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.

7- Pour the dressing over the octopus, potatoes, and onion mixture. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.

8- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt and pepper according to your preference.

9- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

10- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad.

Enjoy your refreshing Croatian Octopus Salad as a light and flavorful appetizer or main dish!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Croatian Octopus Salad recipe:

Medium octopus (2 pounds):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 70g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of lean protein
• Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and iron
• Low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet

Medium potatoes (4 potatoes, approximately 2 cups diced):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body
• High in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health
• Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and B vitamins, supporting overall health and immune function

Red onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 45
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• Contains flavonoids and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases
• Good source of fiber, promoting digestive health
• Provides vitamins C and B6, as well as folate, which are important for immune function and overall well-being

Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 54g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may help lower cholesterol levels
• Contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation
• Provides vitamin E, which supports skin health and immune function

Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• May have antioxidant properties that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation
• Contains acetic acid, which may aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness
• Adds flavor to dishes without adding extra calories or fat

Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons chopped):

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, supporting overall health and immune function
• Contains compounds like chlorophyll, which may help detoxify the body and promote fresh breath
• Adds color and flavor to dishes while providing a nutritional boost

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific type of ingredients used and any variations in portion sizes.