Simple Greek Grilled Octopus

Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean with this flavorful and tender Greek Grilled Octopus. Perfect for a seafood lover’s feast or a special occasion!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs octopus, cleaned and thawed (if frozen)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Octopus

1. Thaw: If using frozen octopus, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Cook: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the octopus for 45-60 minutes until tender. Alternatively, use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time.

Marinate

1. Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cool and Cut: Once the octopus is tender, drain and let it cool slightly. Cut the octopus into manageable pieces.
3. Marinate: Toss the octopus pieces in the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Grill

1. Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill Octopus: Grill the octopus pieces for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and heated through.

Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy with a Greek salad or as part of a mezze platter.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 4 oz
• Calorie Count: 200 kcal per serving

Notes

• Tenderizing: Ensure the octopus is well-tenderized before grilling for the best texture.
• Flavor Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving enhances the flavors.

10 FAQs

1. How do I know when the octopus is tender?
   The octopus should be easy to pierce with a fork and should feel tender.
2. Can I use a different marinade?
   Yes, you can experiment with other herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary.
3. How can I make sure the octopus doesn’t become chewy?
   Proper cooking and tenderizing are key to avoiding a chewy texture.
4. Can I grill the octopus if it’s still frozen?
   It’s best to thaw the octopus first to ensure even cooking.
5. What if I don’t have a grill?
   You can use a grill pan or broil the octopus in your oven.
6. How long should I marinate the octopus?
   Marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Longer marination enhances the taste.
7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can marinate and cook the octopus a day ahead. Reheat before serving.
8. What other side dishes go well with grilled octopus?
   Greek salad, tzatziki, or roasted vegetables complement the dish well.
9. Can I use octopus that’s already been cooked?
   Yes, if the octopus is pre-cooked, you just need to marinate and grill until heated through.
10. How do I store leftovers?
    Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

This Simple Greek Grilled Octopus offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors and is perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a delicious meal at home.

Print