Mediterranean octopus salad

In my quest of making things that are refreshing in this heat and inspired by the many jokes about Paul the Octopus after Germany was kicked out of the World Cup last week I came across another recipe from my mother in law: a Mediterranean octopus salad that is usually served warm but that can also be served chilled. It is delicious, so don't let the idea of octopus put you off. If cooked well, it is extremely tender and it is very subtle in taste.

Smitten Kitchen's Mango slaw with cashews and mint

I have been reading Smitten Kitchen for years and I love pretty much anything Deb posts, from her fantastic baked goods recipes to the photos of adorable little J (yes, I am partial, we had baby boys just around the same time).

Anyhow, on Friday I was sitting at my desk dreading the trip home in the sweltering heatwave that seems to have hit both sides of the Atlantic. I came across the Mango slaw with cashews and mint recipe and fell instantly in love. Just the thought of Thai food is enough to start my mouth watering and seeing Deb's beautiful photos convinced me I had to have some of that all for myself.