Description
Grilled octopus is a Mediterranean delicacy that brings out the natural flavors of seafood. This juicy grilled octopus recipe requires just 20 minutes of cooking time and a few simple ingredients. The result is perfectly charred, tender, and flavorful octopus that will impress at any meal. With olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers or anyone looking for a quick yet elegant meal. Whether you’re preparing a light dish or serving it as part of a larger Mediterranean feast, this grilled octopus recipe is simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb octopus, cleaned
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure the octopus cooks evenly and develops a nice char.
Step 2: Prepare the Octopus
Rub the cleaned octopus with olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavors.
Step 3: Grill the Octopus
Place the octopus on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a nice char while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Be careful not to overcook it, as octopus can become rubbery if grilled for too long.
Step 4: Rest the Octopus
Once cooked, remove the octopus from the grill and let it rest for about 2 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring it remains moist and tender.
Step 5: Finish with Flavor
Drizzle the grilled octopus with extra olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Squeeze a wedge of lemon over the top to add a burst of citrus freshness that complements the grilled flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled octopus with the lemon wedges on the side. Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- Cleaning the Octopus: Make sure the octopus is cleaned thoroughly before grilling. You can ask your fishmonger to clean it for you or clean it yourself by removing the beak and internal organs.
- Marinating for Extra Flavor: Marinate the octopus in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling. This will infuse the octopus with more flavor and help tenderize the meat.
- Don’t Overcook: Octopus should be grilled just enough to create a charred, crispy exterior while staying tender on the inside. Overcooking will make the texture rubbery.
- Toppings: For an added flavor boost, try serving the octopus with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Grilled Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
