Get ready to fall in love with the tender, charred goodness of grilled octopus! This underrated seafood gem is packed with flavor and texture, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering or Mediterranean-inspired feast. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering grilled octopus recipes that blend the bold flavors of Greece, Spain, Italy, and beyond.
From classic combinations like lemon and olive oil to spicier twists with garlic and paprika, these recipes showcase the versatility of octopus when it comes to Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty paella-inspired dish, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of grilled octopus, sharing our favorite recipes and cooking techniques to help you become an octopus master chef.
Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Olive Oil
Savor the tender, smoky flavor of grilled octopus paired with a bright and citrusy lemon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut octopus tentacles
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the octopus tentacles with olive oil and season with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Grilled Octopus with Garlic and Paprika
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and spicy grilled octopus recipe, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. The combination of smoky paprika, pungent garlic, and fiery chili flakes will have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, paprika, and chili flakes.
3. Add octopus pieces and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Brush both sides of the octopus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill octopus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Grilled Octopus and Chorizo Skewers
Add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your next BBQ with these Grilled Octopus and Chorizo Skewers. Tender, char-grilled octopus pairs perfectly with spicy chorizo and smoky paprika for a truly show-stopping appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 Spanish chorizos, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread octopus, chorizo, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until octopus is tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad
Escape to the Mediterranean coast with this refreshing salad featuring grilled octopus, succulent tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Add octopus and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled octopus, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, and mixed greens.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Smoky Romesco Sauce
Savor the tender, charred texture of grilled octopus paired with the rich, smoky flavor of romesco sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a special occasion or a flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Smoky Romesco Sauce (recipe below)
Smoky Romesco Sauce:
– 1 cup roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup almonds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and tender.
4. Meanwhile, make Smoky Romesco Sauce by blending all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
5. Serve grilled octopus with Smoky Romesco Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)
Herb-Marinated Grilled Octopus
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and tender octopus dish, perfect for a summer evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of octopus with the bright, herbaceous notes of parsley, oregano, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the octopus pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove octopus from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the tender texture of grilled octopus with the bright, herby flavors of chimichurri. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar.
3. Add octopus pieces to the marinade and let it sit for 30 minutes.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and tender.
5. Serve with additional chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Charred Grilled Octopus with Fennel and Orange
Experience the tender, smoky flavor of grilled octopus elevated by the brightness of fennel and orange. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add octopus and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and slightly tender.
4. Meanwhile, grill fennel slices for 1-2 minutes per side, or until slightly caramelized.
5. Serve grilled octopus with roasted fennel, orange segments, and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Octopus Tacos with Avocado Crema
Grilled Octopus Tacos with Avocado Crema: A flavorful and innovative twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender grilled octopus, crispy tortillas, and a creamy avocado sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and smoked paprika. Add octopus tentacles; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled octopus into bite-sized pieces and serving with warmed tortillas, Avocado Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Mash avocado in a bowl. Mix in sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Greek-Style Grilled Octopus with Oregano
Greek-Style Grilled Octopus with Oregano: A flavorful and tender seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 tsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, oregano, lemon zest, and garlic.
3. Add the octopus tentacles to the marinade, coating evenly. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Remove the octopus from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Place the octopus on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of oregano.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Grilled Octopus with White Bean Puree
Savor the tender texture of grilled octopus paired with a creamy white bean puree, perfect for a summer evening meal. This dish is a Mediterranean-inspired delight that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and white wine (if using). Add octopus and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill octopus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. Meanwhile, combine cannellini beans, chicken broth, and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve grilled octopus atop white bean puree, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Octopus and Potato Salad
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of grilled octopus with the creamy comfort of a classic potato salad. Perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season octopus with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced potatoes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve grilled octopus on top of potato salad.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled octopus: 6-8 minutes
– Potato salad: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Spicy Tomato Sauce
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece with this succulent grilled octopus dish, perfectly balanced by a bold and spicy tomato sauce. This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its unique combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup garlic-infused olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic-infused olive oil. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. In a separate pan, combine diced tomatoes, parsley, jalapeño pepper, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve grilled octopus with spicy tomato sauce and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Garlic Butter and Parsley
Grilled Octopus with Garlic Butter and Parsley: A Simple yet Impressive Appetizer
Elevate your gatherings with this surprisingly easy and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick start to any meal. The combination of tender grilled octopus, rich garlic butter, and fresh parsley is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and tentacle-free octopus
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Brush the octopus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of char and tenderness.
5. Meanwhile, toast the parsley by placing it on a plate and microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
6. Serve the grilled octopus with garlic butter spooned over the top, garnished with toasted parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-12 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Saffron Aioli
Experience the tender, smoky flavor of grilled octopus paired with a rich and creamy saffron aioli. This unique combination is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup saffron aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Saffron Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add octopus tentacles and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve with saffron aioli and garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Octopus and Chorizo Paella
Experience the flavors of Spain with this savory Grilled Octopus and Chorizo Paella recipe, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. Tender grilled octopus pairs perfectly with spicy chorizo, saffron-infused rice, and the smoky flavor of grilled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill octopus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chorizo and bell peppers; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Serve grilled octopus on top of paella; garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Black Olive Tapenade
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of grilled octopus with the rich, umami flavor of black olive tapenade. Perfect for a summer evening or as an appetizer for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and cut into tentacle pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Black Olive Tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the octopus tentacles to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. Serve with a dollop of black olive tapenade and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Roasted Pepper Relish
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and impressive dish that’s perfect for a summer evening. Succulent grilled octopus is paired with a sweet and smoky roasted pepper relish, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Roasted Pepper Relish (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s tender and slightly charred.
4. Serve with Roasted Pepper Relish (recipe below) and garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Roasted Pepper Relish:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt to taste
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Roast the bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Peel off the skin, chop, and mix with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 succulent grilled octopus recipes. From classic combinations like lemon and olive oil to spicy and smoky options, there’s something for every taste. Try grilling your octopus with chorizo skewers or a Mediterranean salad, or go bold with smoky romesco sauce or saffron aioli. These recipes showcase the versatility of grilled octopus, paired with herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create unforgettable dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for your next gathering, these grilled octopus recipes are sure to please.
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