Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Grilled Baby Octopus with Chorizo, Fennel, and Garlic Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 5 reviews

This flavorful baby octopus recipe combines tender octopus marinated with aromatic garlic, fennel, spicy chili, and savory chorizo, then grilled to perfection for a delicious, smoky seafood dish. Perfect for a summer barbecue or an elegant dinner, the octopus develops a delightful char, while remaining juicy and tender inside.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes (+ overnight marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Seafood and Meat

  • 2 lbs (1 kg) baby octopus
  • 1 chorizo sausage, sliced

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 head of fennel, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 chili pepper, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)

Oils and Seasonings

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • Cooking spray for grilling
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the baby octopus, minced garlic, sliced fennel, extra virgin olive oil, sliced chorizo, chopped chili pepper, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the octopus to tenderize.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat the BBQ grill plate to high heat. Lightly spray the grill surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy turning of the octopus.
  3. Grill the Octopus: Place the marinated octopus mixture on the hot grill. Allow the octopus to cook for several minutes on one side until it begins to shrivel and curl up, then turn them over to cook the other side. Keep an eye on the heat, lowering it if the octopus starts to burn. The octopus should be cooked through in approximately 10 minutes, developing a nice char without drying out.
  4. Serve: Remove the grilled octopus from the grill and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish. Enjoy this smoky, tender seafood as a delightful appetizer or main course.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight is key for tender and flavorful octopus.
  • Adjust chili pepper quantity to control the spiciness.
  • If you don’t have a BBQ grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can be used as an alternative.
  • Cooking times may vary based on grill heat; watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complement the dish.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean