Octopus and green pepper with plum dressing
Tender octopus, crisp green peppers, and tangy plum come together in a refreshing Japanese-style appetizer packed with texture and umami.
What to drink with it

This simple Japanese-style salad combines tender octopus, crisp green peppers, and savory plum dressing for a refreshing yet flavorful bite. The natural sweetness of the octopus pairs beautifully with the tartness of the plum, while flying fish roe and bonito flakes add layers of umami.
Ready in minutes with no cooking required, this dish makes an excellent appetizer, side dish, or accompaniment to sake and wine. Light, vibrant, and packed with texture, it's a crowd-pleasing recipe for any occasion.
What you'll need
- 100g boiled octopus
- 3 green peppers
- 2 pickled plums (umeboshi)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp chicken stock powder
- A small amount of soy sauce
- A small amount of white sesame seeds
- A small amount of grated garlic
- 1 small packet bonito flakes
- 5g flying fish roe (tobiko)
How to make it
Remove the seeds from the green peppers and slice them into thin strips. Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces. Finely mash the pickled plums.
Place all ingredients in a bowl. Add the sesame oil, chicken stock powder, soy sauce, white sesame seeds, grated garlic, bonito flakes, and tobiko. Mix well and serve.
Tips
- Tobiko is optional but adds a fun texture and extra umami.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Add a spoonful of mayonnaise for a creamier flavor.
- Substitute olive oil for sesame oil to create a more Western-style variation.