The octopus is famous for its bulbous head, enormous eyes, and four pairs of long arms. The stuff of legends and nightmares, octopi have been featured in stories, artwork, and meals galore. But how do you eat this distinctive looking, bilaterally symmetrical sea creature? Here are eight down-to-earth (or shall we say, down-to-sea) ways to indulge in the octopus. And yes, the number of preparations we are featuring is no accident. Eight is great—just ask an octopus!

Tip: Use Pre-Cooked Octopus It can be tough to master the art of perfectly cooking an octopus. So for ease, you can opt for already-cooked octopus for these dishes. To find pre-cooked octopus, check the sushi section of your local Asian market, ask your fishmonger about it, or check the fish counter at an upscale grocery store. Don't Miss: The Food Hacks Guide to Sustainable Seafood

5. Tuscan Soup Baby octopus soup, or zuppa di moscardini, is a simple dish that will culinarily transport you to the blue seas of the Mediterranean. Cookbook author and Tuscany resident Emiko Davies gives her unique take on the dish, adding garlic, red wine, and red wine vinegar. She claims that with soup, layers and texture are key. We agree! Don't Miss: 10 Unbelievably Delicious Substitutes for Boring Croutons Image by Allen Benson/SBS

6. Octopus & Squid with Capers & Grape Tomatoes Octopus and squid come from the same family and in this simple recipe from Kali Orexi, they're a seafood match made in heaven. They pair well with the saltiness of the capers, the sweetness of the grape tomatoes, and the variety of dried herbs used (rosemary and thyme). Don't Miss: How to Cut Tomatoes the Right Way Image by Maria/Kali Orexi

8. Baby Octopus Sandwich You can find baby octopus sandwiches at various restaurants here and there, including this gorgeous entry from San Francisco hotspot Naked Lunch. If you can't make it to the Bay Area, their signature delicacy can be recreated in your own kitchen. Take a fresh, soft bun spread with aioli, add some arugula, a few slices of salami or Spanish chorizo, and a combination of pickles, onions, and capers to produce this outstanding octopus sandwich. Don't Miss: These Sushi Burgers Put Your Sad Desk Lunch to Shame Image via FoodSpotting With these eight delicious ways to enjoy octopus, may you dive deeply into feasting upon this sensational sea creature. Have any favorite octopus recipes of your own? Ever had a really delicious octopus dish at a restaurant? Share your tentacled tips with us in the comments below. If you liked this article, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!