Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini Recipe
If you’re ready to thrill your taste buds and wow your dinner guests, look no further than Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini. This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together tender marinated octopus, kissed with citrus and just the right amount of spice, and roasted broccolini that’s perfectly crisp on the edges. Every bite is bursting with fresh flavors, color, and a hint of smokiness—truly a feast for all the senses!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great recipes always start with great ingredients, and this one is no exception. Each component in Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini has a crucial part to play, from the citrusy brightness to the peppery char and the silky, luscious olive oil. Gather these kitchen essentials, and you’ll be well on your way to a dish that’s as striking as it is delicious!
- Baby octopus (2 pounds, cleaned): The star of the show—tender, mild, and perfect for absorbing all those zesty marinades.
- Olive oil (1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps both the octopus and broccolini achieve that irresistible char.
- Orange (zest and juice of 1): Fresh zest and juice bring a fragrant, sweet citrus kick to the marinade.
- Lemon (zest and juice of 1): Balances the sweet orange with tart brightness for a lively, refreshing flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers a punch of savory aroma and depth.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses the octopus with gentle smokiness and a pop of color.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy, floral undertones that complement the citrus beautifully.
- Chili flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Lends gentle heat—add a touch more if you prefer things spicier.
- Salt (3/4 teaspoon, divided): Enhances all the flavors; season well for best results.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, divided): A finishing touch of sharpness to round out the seasoning.
- Broccolini (1 bunch, trimmed): Roasts up crisp-tender, adding crunch and peppery notes.
- Fresh parsley: Bright green garnish for a fresh finish.
- Lemon wedges: Essential for squeezing over at the table—more citrus brightness in every bite!
How to Make Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini
Step 1: Whisk Up the Zesty Marinade
Start by creating the marinade that gives Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini its signature punch. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. This combination is positively mouthwatering, infusing the octopus with a lively blend of flavors that will shine through surface to center.
Step 2: Marinate the Baby Octopus
Add your cleaned baby octopus to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each tentacle is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—don’t rush this part! The longer the octopus sits in all those vibrant flavors, the more delicious the result. If you’re planning ahead, you can marinate overnight for even deeper flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Octopus
Get your grill or grill pan good and hot over medium-high heat. Remove the octopus from the marinade (letting any extra drip off) and lay them on the grates. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side—you want a smoky char and tender bite. If you like your octopus extra tender, a quick simmer before marinating is a pro tip that makes for truly melt-in-the-mouth results.
Step 4: Roast the Crunchy Broccolini
While your octopus grills, toss the broccolini with olive oil, a bit of salt and black pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re after broccolini that’s crisp-tender and boasts just a hint of char, which brings wonderful contrast in both texture and flavor to the finished dish.
Step 5: Plate and Finish
Arrange the grilled octopus on a serving platter alongside the roasted broccolini. Scatter fresh parsley on top for a vibrant hit of green, and nestle in some lemon wedges for squeezing. This final touch brightens up the whole dish, making every forkful of Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini sing with citrusy flavor and crunchy goodness.
How to Serve Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are a must for Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini. The parsley delivers a burst of color while the lemon offers an extra pop of tartness—they’re the finishing moves that elevate your presentation and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds even more flair.
Side Dishes
When it comes to side dishes, think Mediterranean favorites: crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover citrusy juices, while fluffy couscous or a garlicky white bean salad will round out the meal. Grilled vegetables are another excellent choice if you want to keep the meal vibrant, healthy, and light.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini into a true centerpiece by arranging the tentacles in a fan design or stacking them artfully atop the broccolini for height. Serve individually plated for an elegant dinner party feel, or pile everything high on a rustic platter for a more relaxed, shareable feast that invites guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, so don’t be shy about enjoying leftovers!
Freezing
While octopus can technically be frozen after cooking, it’s best eaten fresh or from the fridge, as freezing may change its wonderfully tender texture. If you must freeze, wrap tightly and use within one month, thawing gently in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the octopus and broccolini in a hot skillet or under the broiler for just a couple of minutes to regain their char and crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the octopus rubbery.
FAQs
How do I make the octopus extra tender?
For an ultra-tender result, simmer the cleaned baby octopus gently in water for about 30 minutes before marinating. It’s an extra step that pays off if you prefer that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Can I use frozen baby octopus?
Yes—frozen baby octopus works well! Just be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating so the flavors can really soak in and grilling goes smoothly.
What if I don’t have a grill?
A grill pan on your stovetop works beautifully for Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini. In a pinch, you can even use a broiler—just keep a close eye so the octopus gets nicely charred but not overcooked.
Is there a good substitute for broccolini?
If broccolini is hard to find, young broccoli stalks, asparagus, or even green beans will deliver similar crisp, green goodness and soak up the citrus-spiced marinade just as well.
How spicy is the dish?
With the amount of chili flakes listed, the heat level is gentle; you’ll notice just a little warmth in each bite. If you love spicy foods, feel free to add an extra pinch or two of chili flakes to the marinade.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s unique, stunning, and full of flavor, Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini is one you absolutely have to try. Invite some friends over, pour a glass of chilled white wine, and enjoy this chef-worthy meal at home—it might just become your new favorite way to bring fresh Mediterranean magic to the table!
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Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender baby octopus marinated in a zesty citrus-spice blend, grilled to perfection, and served alongside crunchy broccolini. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is bursting with flavor and makes for a delightful main course.
Ingredients
Baby Octopus:
- 2 pounds baby octopus, cleaned
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Broccolini:
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the Octopus: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, garlic, smoked paprika, coriander, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the baby octopus, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Grill the Octopus: Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove octopus from the marinade and grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side until charred and tender.
- Roast the Broccolini: Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until crisp-tender and slightly charred.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange grilled octopus on a platter with roasted broccolini. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve warm.
Notes
- If you prefer extra tender octopus, simmer it in water for 30 minutes before marinating.
- This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or couscous to soak up the citrusy juices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
