Description
This Grilled Octopus recipe features tender and flavorful octopus charred to perfection on a medium-high heat grill. Marinated simply with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper, this dish is garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges to enhance the smoky, savory taste. Ideal for seafood lovers looking for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 large octopus (about 2–3 lbs), cleaned
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot enough to char the octopus while keeping the inside tender.
- Prepare the octopus: Pat the octopus dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better char.
- Season the octopus: Rub the octopus with olive oil, then evenly coat it with minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor before grilling.
- Grill the octopus: Place the octopus directly on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Grill until the surface is nicely charred and the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest the octopus: Remove the octopus from the grill and let it rest for 2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, tender bites.
- Serve: Slice the grilled octopus into pieces and serve it garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top to add brightness.
Notes
- Cleaning the octopus thoroughly before cooking is essential to remove any residual ink or slime.
- If you prefer, tenderize the octopus by boiling it briefly before grilling, but this recipe grills directly for a smoky flavor.
- You can substitute lemon wedges with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice for more even coverage.
- Grilling times may vary depending on the size of the octopus; ensure it is cooked until tender.
- Use a grill brush to clean the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
