Spaghetti with Bell Pepper Cream and Octopus

I can guide you in preparing a dish of spaghetti with bell pepper cream and octopus, a combination where the sweet and smoky taste of the peppers pairs perfectly with the sea flavor of the octopus. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

For 4 people:

• 320 g of spaghetti
• 1 medium-sized octopus (about 800 g)
• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 garlic clove
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A small handful of chopped parsley
• (optional) Chili pepper to taste.

Preparation

1. Octopus Cleaning: First, clean the octopus by removing the inside of the head and the skin, if desired. Also remove the central beak and the eyes. Rinse well under cold running water.

2. Octopus Cooking: Place the octopus in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until tender. To check doneness, pierce the octopus with a fork; it should go in easily. When cooked, turn off the heat and let it cool in its cooking liquid.

3. Preparing the Bell Pepper Cream: Meanwhile, roast the peppers in the oven at 200 °C until they blacken and bubbles form on their surface, about 20-30 minutes. Then, place them in a plastic food bag to facilitate skin removal. After a few minutes, peel them and remove seeds and internal filaments. Blend the peppers in a mixer with a drizzle of oil, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth cream.

4. Cut the Octopus: Once the octopus is cold, cut it into pieces that are not too small.

5. Cooking the Spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the instructions to achieve an al dente texture.

6. Seasoning the Spaghetti: In a large pan, sauté a garlic clove in oil, then remove it and add the cut octopus. Let it brown and then add the bell pepper cream. Mix well and, if necessary, add a bit of pasta cooking water to dilute the cream.

7. Conclusion: Drain the al dente spaghetti and transfer them to the pan with the bell pepper cream and octopus, sautéing for a few minutes. If you like, add a pinch of chili for a spicy touch.

8. Serve: Plate the spaghetti, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Trivia

The octopus has a long history in Mediterranean cuisine and is often combined with simple ingredients that enhance its flavor without overpowering it. In this recipe, the sweetness of the roasted peppers creates a delicious balance with the texture and sea taste of the octopus. It is a dish that encapsulates the summer flavors of the Mediterranean and surprises with its delicacy and refinement.