- Antipasti
- Bella Italia
- Dessert
- Drinks
- Favorite Italian recipes
- Main courses
- Pasta
- Pizza
- Side dishes and salad
- Tips & Knowledge
Cuttlefish salad like in Naples
Cuttlefish salad from Naples, often referred to as "Insalata di Calamari", is a classic dish from the rich culinary tradition of Naples and the surrounding Campania region. The salad reflects Naples' proximity to the sea and Neapolitans' love of fresh seafood. Here, our Neapolitan colleague Antonio shares his recipe with you.
The star of the dish: the octopus
As the name suggests, the octopus is central to the octopus salad. In Naples, it is prepared with great care to achieve the perfect texture – tender but not rubbery. The art of octopus preparation is a fascinating object of study for ambitious chefs. The quality and freshness of the octopus are crucial for the salad. In Naples, great importance is attached to sourcing octopus directly from local fishermen.
How to serve the squid salad
Squid salad has a light and refreshing taste that makes it an ideal summer dish. It is often served chilled and is therefore particularly popular on hot days: as an antipasto or as a light main course.
Antonio, who created our recipe, says: “This salad is eaten all over southern Italy, as an antipasto in restaurants, but also at home. In my home country of Naples, the recipe is refined with green olives from Gaeta, chopped celery and potatoes cooked in a pulp broth. My mom always serves it chilled on a large platter.”
Insalata di Polpo – Regional variations
Depending on the region in Italy, there are many variations of “Insalata di Polpo” that use local ingredients and spices. For example, there are variations with capers, oranges, fennel or tomatoes.
Want to share your thoughts? We're excited to hear what you think of the article. Tell us about your ideas, tips or questions! Leave a comment and share your knowledge with the community. Your opinion counts.
Write a comment