Are you ready to take your seafood game to the next level? Look no further! Grilled octopus is a culinary delight that’s sure to impress, and with these 20 mouthwatering recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to spicy tacos and Asian-infused glazes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’re diving into the world of grilled octopus and exploring the many ways you can elevate this tender and flavorful ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Let’s start with some classic combinations: try pairing your grilled octopus with a zesty lemon and olive oil sauce for a taste of the Mediterranean, or go bold with a spicy mango salsa and crispy tacos. And don’t forget to check out our unique glazes and marinades – from soy ginger to miso and sesame seeds, there’s something for every flavor profile.
Stay tuned for more recipes and inspiration, and get ready to take your grilled octopus game to new heights!
Mediterranean Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Olive Oil
This recipe brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring tender grilled octopus smothered in a bright and zesty lemon-herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and cut octopus
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Add the octopus to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the octopus from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the octopus for 8-10 minutes per side, or until charred and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Grilled Octopus Tacos with Mango Salsa
Add a touch of the ocean to your taco Tuesday with this bold and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add octopus pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 30 minutes.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled octopus, Mango Salsa, and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Garlic Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the tender and flavorful grilled octopus, paired with a rich garlic herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and patted dry octopus
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the octopus under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the octopus for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
5. Brush the garlic herb butter on the grilled octopus during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including prep time)
Asian-Inspired Grilled Octopus with Soy Ginger Glaze
Asian-Inspired Grilled Octopus with Soy Ginger Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and cut into tentacle pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to make the glaze.
3. Brush both sides of the octopus pieces with the glaze.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Grilled Octopus Salad with Arugula and Cherry Tomatoes
Experience the tender delight of grilled octopus paired with peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into tentacle pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season octopus with salt and pepper.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Slice grilled octopus into strips and add to the salad.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Octopus Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Savor the tender and flavorful grilled octopus, paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This Argentine-inspired appetizer is perfect for a summer gathering or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread octopus pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and water in a bowl to make chimichurri sauce.
6. Serve grilled octopus skewers with chimichurri sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Smoked Paprika and Garlic
Grilled Octopus with Smoked Paprika and Garlic Recipe
Grilled Octopus with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Toss the chopped red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. In a bowl, combine roasted red peppers, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
7. Serve grilled octopus with roasted red pepper sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender grilled octopus with a tangy and herby lemon caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Remove octopus from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice and capers in a small bowl.
6. Serve grilled octopus with lemon caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Charred Corn and Avocado
Transform the tender flesh of grilled octopus into a flavorful summer delight, paired with smoky corn and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove octopus from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, grill corn ears for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until lightly charred.
5. To assemble, place grilled octopus on a platter with charred corn and sliced avocado. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make grilled octopus dish, perfectly balanced by a tangy balsamic glaze and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and tentacle-free octopus
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Fresh oregano, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the octopus to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill the octopus for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it’s tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
6. Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
7. Brush the grilled octopus with the balsamic glaze during the last minute of cooking.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and oregano, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Saffron Aioli
Savor the tender, charred flavor of grilled octopus paired with a rich and creamy saffron aioli. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is 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 tsp lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Saffron aioli (see below)
Saffron Aioli:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 1 tbsp 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, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. Serve with saffron aioli.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Tomato Basil Relish
Experience the tender, char-grilled flavor of octopus paired with a fresh and zesty tomato basil relish. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss octopus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, combine cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled octopus with tomato basil relish spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)
Grilled Octopus with White Bean and Fennel Salad
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the tender sweetness of grilled octopus with the creamy freshness of white beans and fennel.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and salt. Add octopus pieces and toss to coat.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. Meanwhile, combine white beans, fennel, lemon juice, and parsley in a separate bowl.
5. Serve grilled octopus on top of bean-fennel salad.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling time: 6-8 minutes
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Spicy Harissa Sauce
Savor the tender, smoky flavor of grilled octopus paired with a bold and spicy harissa sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup harissa sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of char and tenderness.
4. Meanwhile, heat the harissa sauce in a small pan over medium heat until warmed through.
5. Serve the grilled octopus with the spicy harissa sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Citrus Marinade
Succulent grilled octopus pairs perfectly with a bright and zesty citrus marinade, creating a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and lemon juices, garlic, and salt.
2. Add the octopus pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the octopus from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
4. Brush both sides of the octopus with olive oil and season with pepper.
5. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Pesto and Parmesan
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the tender, char-grilled octopus with the bold flavors of pesto and parmesan. Perfect for a summer dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and cut octopus
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the octopus from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and slightly tender.
5. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and parmesan cheese.
6. Serve the grilled octopus with a dollop of pesto-parmesan mixture on top and garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (including marinating time)
Grilled Octopus with Grilled Vegetables and Tzatziki
Savor the tender sweetness of grilled octopus paired with smoky vegetables and a refreshing dollop of tzatziki. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into tentacle pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grilled vegetables:
+ 2 bell peppers, any color
+ 1 zucchini
+ 1 red onion
– Tzatziki sauce:
+ 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
+ 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
+ 1 tbsp lemon juice
+ Salt to taste
+ Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, and salt. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill alongside the octopus for about 5 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. To make tzatziki sauce, combine grated cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Serve grilled octopus with grilled vegetables and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Miso Glaze and Sesame Seeds
Elevate your seafood game with this Asian-inspired recipe that combines the tender texture of grilled octopus with a savory miso glaze and crunchy sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
3. Brush the octopus pieces with vegetable oil and season with garlic and ginger.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the miso glaze all over the octopus.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Rosemary and Garlic Infused Oil
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful grilled octopus recipe, infused with the aromatic goodness of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and tentacles separated
– 1/4 cup rosemary and garlic infused oil (see below for recipe)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Rosemary and Garlic Infused Oil:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat for 30 minutes, or until fragrant.
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together infused oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Add octopus tentacles; toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leave a Reply