Description:
Grilled octopus with garlic and herbs is a flavorful, tender seafood dish that combines smoky charred octopus with a fresh, aromatic herb marinade. Perfectly grilled until crispy on the outside and tender inside, the octopus is paired with a garlicky, zesty sauce to enhance its natural flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is ideal for a summer BBQ, special gatherings, or a delicious seafood dinner. Learn how to master the art of grilling octopus and enjoy a unique, gourmet meal right at home.
Grilled Octopus with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized octopus (about 1 lb each), cleaned
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Octopus:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the octopus and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender. Check with a fork to ensure it’s soft.
- Once cooked, remove the octopus from the water and allow it to cool slightly. Cut off the tentacles and discard the head (if desired). Pat the tentacles dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the marinade over the octopus tentacles and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Grill the Octopus:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the marinated octopus tentacles on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy and slightly charred, while basting with extra marinade. The octopus should develop a nice grill mark and crispy edges.
4. Serve:
- Remove the grilled octopus from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Drizzle with any remaining marinade and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.