Salata od hobotnice, or octopus salad, is a delightful and refreshing starter that shines along the Croatian coast during the warm summer months. Rooted in the Mediterranean culinary tradition of Dalmatia, this dish showcases the region’s love for fresh seafood, particularly octopus, which is abundant in the Adriatic Sea. Typically served as a light appetizer or meze, it’s a staple at seaside restaurants, family gatherings, and local festivals, where the tender octopus is paired with simple yet flavorful ingredients like potatoes, onions, and olive oil. The dish reflects Croatia’s coastal heritage, where fishing communities have perfected the art of preparing cephalopods with minimal fuss to highlight their natural taste.
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Lagareiro is a traditional Portuguese cooking style that typically involves baking or grilling with plenty of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The addition of chouriço gives this dish a smoky, rich flavour that perfectly complements the tender octopus. This dish is a showcase of Portuguese flavours, combining the tender, slightly charred octopus with the rich, smoky notes of chouriço. It’s rustic, hearty, and full of Mediterranean charm.
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This recipe brings together the rich, bold flavours of the traditional Italian Puttanesca sauce with tender squid, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The salty bite of anchovies, olives, and capers blends beautifully with sweet tomatoes and fresh herbs, while the lemony squid adds a touch of brightness. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for something a little different, this dish pairs perfectly with your favourite pasta for a satisfying meal. It’s easy enough for a midweek dinner but special enough to impress guests.
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This Seared Tuna with Salty Nut Crust and Fig Chutney recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavours, combining the fresh, meaty taste of tuna with the crunch of a salty nut crust and the sweetness of a homemade fig chutney. The dish is simple but elegant, perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion when you want to impress with minimal effort. The sweet and savoury contrast creates a sophisticated balance, while the quick searing of the tuna keeps it tender and juicy. This recipe is proof that sometimes the best dishes are the ones that celebrate simplicity.
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This recipe brings together the savory richness of pork and the delicate, tender texture of squid, wrapped in a golden puff pastry for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The addition of a creamy leek sauce adds a subtle sweetness and a smooth, luxurious touch, making this dish feel both comforting and refined. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to try something new and impressive, yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just craving something indulgent, these stuffed pastries with creamy leek sauce will leave a lasting impression.
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This Octopus and Squid Casserole is a flavourful and hearty dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, it’s rich in spices and aromas, making it a delightful meal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of octopus and squid, slow-cooked with a medley of vegetables and spices, creates a tender and aromatic casserole that pairs wonderfully with bulgur wheat or couscous. This recipe might take a bit of time, but the delicious result is well worth the effort.
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Originating from the Alentejo region of Portugal, Carne de Porco à Alentejana is a beloved dish that combines tender pork, succulent clams, and crispy potatoes in a flavourful medley. This traditional recipe captures the essence of Portuguese cuisine, blending aromatic spices, fresh seafood, and hearty ingredients.
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Bisque is a culinary method that brings out the full flavor of crustaceans that may not meet market standards. In a classic bisque, the shells are finely ground into a paste, which is then used to thicken the soup. Despite having obtained perfect crayfish, I wanted to explore the art of making a bisque. Here is my interpretation of a delightful crayfish bisque.
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This black mussel and white wine dish is one of my favourite starters to make when we are having people over. It is very easy to prepare and the whole dish can be done under 90 minutes from scratch. As a starter this can easily serve 12 people if you add some bread. Obviously it can also be served as a mains, but be careful, it is very rich.
This dish almost seems Arabic instead of European with the use of sultanas and pine nuts. This is not surprising as Sicily was under Arab rule from 827 to 1061 and Sicilian cuisine was strongly influenced by the Arabs.