Portuguese Marinated Octopus Salad with Olives and Capers
Enjoy a vibrant mix of tender octopus, briny olives, and zesty capers in this traditional Portuguese salad.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Cooking the Octopus
- 1
Boil water with aromatics
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add lemon halves and bay leaves.
- 2
Simmer the octopus
Submerge the octopus in the boiling water and reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes, until tender.
- 3
Cool and slice
Allow the octopus to cool in its cooking liquid, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Making the Marinade
- 1
Prepare the marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a hint of heat.
- 2
Marinate the octopus
Combine the sliced octopus with the marinade in a large bowl.
- 3
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Tip: Ensure the octopus is fully submerged in the marinade to achieve even flavor.
How to Make Portuguese Marinated Octopus Salad with Olives and Capers
Total time: 4 h 40 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine the marinated octopus, cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, and parsley.
- 2
Dress the salad
Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper together. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently.
- 3
Rest
Let the salad marinate in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the octopus can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor.
What can I substitute for octopus?
Squid or cuttlefish can be used as an alternative with a similar texture.
How do I reheat the octopus?
It is best served cold; if needed, warm gently in a pan with some olive oil.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, ensure any bread served on the side is gluten-free.
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