Baby Octopus SaladMartyn Thompson
Cooks' notes:
•If you can't find baby octopuses, you can substitute a 2 1/2-lb regular octopus, though the texture will not be as delicate. Discard head of regular octopus, then cut body and tentacles into 2-inch pieces; follow baby- octopus cooking procedure (above), but simmer about 1 1/2 hours rather than 45 minutes. If your sea salt is very granular and pebblelike, crush it using the flat side of a large heavy knife or the bottom of a heavy skillet.
•Octopuses can be cooked and cut (but not tossed with dressing) 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Bring to room temperature before proceeding.
