Grilled Octopus with Za’atar Spiced Chickpea Salad

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This recipe is from Global Flavors, Local Ingredients in our Summer 2023 issue.

Grilled Octopus with Za’atar Spiced Chickpea Salad

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Course Main

Cuisine Seafood

Ingredients

  

Octopus

• 1 whole octopus
• 1 wine cork
• 4 clove garlic
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 bunch of thyme

Chickpea Salad

• 2 cup cooked chickpeas
• 3 tbsp sherry vinegar
• 3 tbsp garlic
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 tbsp Za’atar spice

Instructions

 

• Note: The cork is an old Italian tradition to help tenderize. Does it really help? Not sure, but it doesn’t hurt.

  In a large pot, add all ingredients, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes. Drain, and place hot octopus in a bowl. Add liberal amounts of extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Let cool for several hours. To serve, separate legs. Grill over high charcoal heat until slightly charred. Serve with chickpea salad.
• Combine ingredients. Let chill for an hour and serve with grilled octopus.