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Easy Grilled Octopus Recipe

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3.9 from 1 review

This easy grilled octopus recipe offers tender, flavorful octopus charred to perfection on the grill. Boiled beforehand to ensure a soft texture, the octopus is marinated with garlic and olive oil, then quickly grilled for a smoky finish. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers craving a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Octopus Preparation

  • 2 pounds fresh octopus (baby, medium or large)
  • Water (enough to cover octopus in pot)

Marinade

  • Olive oil (to drizzle and for grilling)
  • 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

Seasoning and Garnish

  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Boil the Octopus: Place the octopus in a large pot and cover with enough water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 40 minutes, or until tender (45 minutes per 2 pounds is a good rule).
  2. Cool and Rinse: Remove the octopus from the boiling water and rinse under cold water. Place it in a bowl and let cool slightly.
  3. Marinate: Drizzle the octopus with olive oil and add the roughly chopped garlic cloves. Stir to coat and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour to absorb the flavors.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat a gas grill to medium-high heat, preparing it for direct grilling.
  5. Slice and Grill: Cut the octopus tentacles into manageable slices. Place them on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until nicely charred and slightly crispy on the edges.
  6. Season and Garnish: Remove the grilled octopus from heat and transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle with dried oregano and chopped fresh parsley. Optionally, add more chopped garlic for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Boiling time varies depending on the size of the octopus; check tenderness by piercing with a fork.
  • You can grill the octopus on a stove-top grill pan if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
  • Allowing the octopus to rest in the marinade enhances the flavor and texture.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright finish; substitute with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
  • This recipe serves 2 but can be easily scaled up for more servings.
  • Make sure not to overcook the octopus on the grill to avoid toughness.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/easy-grilled-octopus-recipe/