Best Grilled Octopus Recipe

Discover the Best Grilled Octopus Recipe that combines Mediterranean flavors with expert grilling techniques for a tender, smoky, and delicious dish. Follow our easy step-by-step instructions to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet dinner. Learn how to prepare, marinate, and grill octopus to perfection. Visit Kelvin's Kitchen for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips!

Versatile Dish: This grilled octopus recipe can be served as an appetizer or a main course, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs gives this dish a delightful Mediterranean flavor profile that's both fresh and savory.

15 FAQ for Grilled Octopus Recipe

What type of octopus should I use for grilling? Use fresh or high-quality frozen octopus for the best results.
How do I tenderize the octopus before grilling? Simmer the octopus in a pot with garlic, bay leaves, lemon, and black peppercorns for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I marinate the octopus overnight? Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors, but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient.
What temperature should the grill be set to? Preheat the grill to high heat.
How long do I grill the octopus? Grill the octopus for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely charred.
What is the purpose of the marinade? The marinade adds flavor and helps tenderize the octopus before grilling.
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the marinade? Yes, you can use other types of vinegar, but red wine vinegar is recommended for its robust flavor.
Is it necessary to use a thermometer to check the doneness of the octopus? No, you can check doneness by the tenderness and the nice char marks on the octopus.
Can I use pre-cooked octopus for this recipe? Yes, pre-cooked octopus can be used; reduce the simmering time accordingly.
How do I serve grilled octopus? Serve it with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness.
What side dishes pair well with grilled octopus? Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
Can I make this recipe without a grill? Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop to achieve similar results.
Is the smoked paprika essential? Smoked paprika adds a distinct flavor, but regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
How should I store leftover grilled octopus? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze the marinated octopus? Yes, you can freeze the marinated octopus before grilling. Thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

Make it

Best Grilled Octopus Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds cleaned octopus, thawed if previously frozen
6 cloves garlic, crushed
2 bay leaves
1 lemon, halved
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Tenderizing the Octopus:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the crushed garlic, bay leaves, lemon halves, and black peppercorns.
- Submerge the octopus in the boiling water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the octopus is tender when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Marinate the Octopus:
- Once the octopus is tender, remove it from the water and let it cool slightly.
- Cut the octopus into large pieces, leaving the tentacles whole if possible for a beautiful presentation.
- Add the octopus pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Grill the Octopus:
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Grill the marinated octopus pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are nicely charred and have grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as the octopus can become tough.
Serve:
- Transfer the grilled octopus to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for the Best Grilled Octopus:

Quality Octopus: Always use fresh or high-quality frozen octopus.
Tenderizing: Simmering the octopus before grilling ensures it is tender.
Char and Flavor: High heat grilling adds a delicious char and smoky flavor that complements the octopus beautifully.

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 22g

Additional Notes:

Flavor Variations: Feel free to add different herbs and spices to the marinade to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions: Grilled octopus pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage: Leftover octopus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Enjoy your delicious and perfectly grilled octopus!

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