Perfectly Grilled Octopus Recipe

Name: Perfectly Grilled Octopus Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 kg octopus (cleaned); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tsp paprika; 1 lemon (cut into wedges); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

60 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Tender, flavourful grilled octopus with a crispy char, perfect for seafood lovers.

Prep

45 min

Cook

15 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Grilled octopus is a delicacy that brings the taste of the ocean to your plate. Known for its tender texture and smoky flavour, this dish is a favourite among seafood enthusiasts. With the right preparation, the octopus becomes a tender, succulent treat that pairs beautifully with fresh lemon and herbs. This version of grilled octopus focuses on achieving that perfect char while keeping the inside moist and juicy. Whether you're a seasoned seafood cook or trying something new, this recipe is designed to guide you through the process with ease.

Instructions

Prepare the octopus

Rinse the octopus under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. If not already done, remove the beak and eyes.

Pro tip: To tenderize, freeze the octopus for at least 24 hours before thawing and cooking.

Boil the octopus

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the octopus and simmer for 45 minutes until tender.

Pro tip: Test tenderness by piercing with a fork; it should go through easily.

Marinate the octopus

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Coat the boiled octopus in the marinade and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Marinate longer for a deeper flavour, up to 30 minutes.

Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to high heat (about 232°C or 450°F).

Pro tip: A hot grill ensures a good char.

Grill the octopus

Place the marinated octopus on the grill. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until charred to your liking.

Pro tip: Avoid moving it too much to ensure nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove the octopus from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Slice into serving pieces, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Tenderize octopus for optimal texture.
Use a hot grill for a crispy char.
Marinate for enhanced flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to grill octopus?

Grill the octopus for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it is charred.

How do you tenderize octopus?

Tenderize octopus by freezing it for at least 24 hours before thawing and cooking.

What temperature to grill octopus?

Preheat the grill to high heat, approximately 232°C or 450°F.

How many calories in grilled octopus?

A serving of grilled octopus contains approximately 250 calories.

How to store leftover octopus?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your grilled octopus with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley for a burst of freshness. It pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a pan to preserve the texture and flavour.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

30g

Protein

12g

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