Chilled octopus salad with lemon, celery, and olive oil is a mediterranean classic. This high protein salad is a fresh, healthy family appetizer ideal for a weight loss or calorie deficit plan.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the octopus and simmer over medium-low heat for 35-40 minutes until just tender; avoid boiling vigorously to prevent toughness.
Remove the octopus from the water, let it cool, and peel away any gelatinous skin with your fingers. Pat dry and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Slice celery stalks thinly, finely chop the parsley, and slice the red onion very thin. Zest half the lemon and juice the whole lemon.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the octopus pieces, celery, red onion, and parsley.
Drizzle with olive oil, add the lemon juice and zest, season with salt and black pepper, and toss gently to coat. Chill for 1 hour before serving to fully marry the flavors.