Grilled octopus brings a taste of the coast right into your kitchen. If you’ve savored it at a seaside eatery, you know the smoky char and tender texture are irresistible.
Though making it at home might seem daunting, this recipe proves it’s both simple and rewarding.
The key is tenderizing the octopus for that melt-in-your-mouth quality and grilling it to smoky perfection. The result? A crispy exterior and succulent interior that’s packed with flavor.
What sets this dish apart is the blend of Mediterranean spices and a hint of lemon zest that transforms the octopus into a culinary delight.
Plus, it’s a healthy choice, offering a lean protein that’s low in fat.
Why Grilled Octopus Has Become My Choice?
- I was shocked at how quickly this became a family favorite – even the kids ask for “octopus night” now!
- It’s surprisingly budget-friendly. A little octopus goes a long way, making it perfect for entertaining.
- I’ve experimented with different marinades, and each one brings a new dimension to the dish. It’s endlessly customizable.
- Leftovers (if you have any) are amazing cold in salads or sandwiches the next day.
- Mastering this recipe gave me the confidence to tackle other “intimidating” seafood dishes. It’s a gateway to culinary adventure!
Best Grilled Octapus Recipe
Equipment
- Grill
- Tongs
- Basting Brush
Ingredients
- 1 Octopus
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- Lemon
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- If the octopus hasn't been cleaned and tenderized, start by rinsing it under cold water and removing the beak, eyes, and innards. Tenderize the octopus by either boiling it for about 30-40 minutes or massaging it with salt for 5-10 minutes. Rinse it again after tenderizing.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the cleaned and tenderized octopus in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Remove the octopus from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the octopus directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the octopus for 15-20 minutes per side, using tongs to flip it halfway through cooking. The octopus is done when it's charred on the outside and tender on the inside. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the octopus.
- Once cooked, transfer the grilled octopus to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add more garlic for extra flavor, or incorporate additional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you prefer, you can tent the octopus with aluminum foil while grilling to help retain moisture.
- Grilled octopus pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
- Grilled octopus pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
Nutrition
Great Accompaniments for Your Grilled Octopus!
Enhance your grilled octopus with a variety of sides that add texture and flavor. Think about pairing it with something fresh, something hearty, and a touch of zest. The right accompaniments will balance the smoky, tender octopus, creating a well-rounded and delicious meal for everyone to enjoy.
Emily Johnson
Tuesday 20th of August 2024
This grilled octopus recipe seems well thought out. For those new to cooking octopus, it might be helpful to mention that it can be tricky to get the perfect texture. My sister and I looked up a few techniques to make sure we didn’t overcook it.
Benjamin Davis
Tuesday 20th of August 2024
This looks amazing! I’m thinking of making it for dinner with my sister this weekend. Has anyone else tried it?
Riley
Friday 16th of August 2024
Thank you so much Austin for this recipe! I’ve always been intimidated by the idea of cooking octopus, but you made it seem so easy.
Jordan
Friday 16th of August 2024
I made this grilled octopus last night, and it was incredible! The marinade really brought out the flavors, and it was perfectly tender. My uncle, who’s usually picky about seafood, couldn’t stop raving about it. Thanks for sharing such a great recipe!