Grilled Octopus with Lemon Herb Oil is a Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish that balances bold charred flavors with a bright, zesty finish. Tender octopus is simmered to perfection, then grilled until lightly crisped and smoky, and finished with a fragrant drizzle of lemon-infused herb oil — a dish that’s as refined as it is rustic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe highlights the natural richness of octopus while introducing the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus. The two-step cooking method ensures tender meat with a satisfying char. It’s ideal for those who enjoy seafood with bold textures and flavors, and it makes for an impressive starter or light main dish. Whether served at a summer gathering or an elegant dinner, this dish stands out for its simplicity and sophistication.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 onion, halved
- 1/2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
For the Lemon Herb Oil:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped oregano or thyme
- Salt and chili flakes to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add bay leaf, onion, lemon, and a generous pinch of salt.
- Submerge the cleaned octopus in the simmering water and cook gently for 45–60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove the octopus from the water and allow it to cool slightly. Slice the tentacles into manageable pieces.
- Preheat a grill to high heat. Toss the octopus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred and crispy at the edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the lemon herb oil.
- Arrange the grilled octopus on a serving plate and drizzle generously with the herb oil. Serve with lemon wedges.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main course.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Grilling time: 8 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 23 minutes
Variations
- Smoked Paprika Oil: Replace the lemon herb oil with a smoked paprika and garlic-infused oil for a spicier version.
- Chili-Lime Marinade: Marinate the octopus in lime juice, chili, and garlic before grilling for a Latin-inspired twist.
- Cold Salad Style: Slice grilled octopus and toss with cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
- Sous-vide Method: For even more tenderness, cook octopus sous-vide before grilling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover octopus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place pieces in a hot skillet or on a grill for a few minutes until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture. The lemon herb oil can be stored separately and used within 3 days.
FAQs
How do I clean octopus before cooking?
Remove the beak, internal organs, and ink sac. Most fishmongers will clean it for you if requested.
Can I use frozen octopus?
Yes, frozen octopus is often more tender due to the freezing process breaking down fibers. Thaw it thoroughly before cooking.
Why simmer the octopus before grilling?
Simmering makes the meat tender, while grilling adds char and flavor without drying it out.
How can I tell when the octopus is tender?
Insert a knife into the thickest part — it should go through easily without resistance.
Can I grill the octopus without boiling?
It’s not recommended as raw octopus will be tough and chewy if grilled directly.
What herbs pair best with grilled octopus?
Parsley, oregano, thyme, and basil complement the flavor well.
How do I prevent the octopus from becoming rubbery?
Cook it slowly during the simmering stage and avoid overcooking on the grill.
Is octopus healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and low in fat, with essential vitamins and minerals like B12 and selenium.
Can I prepare the octopus in advance?
Yes, you can boil and slice it a day ahead, then grill just before serving.
What side dishes go well with grilled octopus?
Try roasted potatoes, crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or a fresh arugula salad.
Conclusion
Grilled Octopus with Lemon Herb Oil is a stunning seafood dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. Perfectly tender with a smoky char and a burst of citrus-herb flavor, it’s a memorable way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at home. Whether served as a main course or an elegant starter, this recipe is sure to impress any seafood enthusiast.
Print
Grilled Octopus with Lemon Herb Oil
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
Charred and tender grilled octopus, infused with smoky flavor and finished with a vibrant lemon-herb oil — a Mediterranean seafood dish that’s bold, savory, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 onion, halved
- 1/2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped oregano or thyme
- Salt and chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil with bay leaf, onion, lemon, and a pinch of salt.
- Add octopus and simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove octopus and let cool slightly. Slice tentacles into pieces.
- Preheat grill to high. Toss octopus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until charred and crispy on the edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the lemon herb oil.
- Plate grilled octopus and drizzle generously with herb oil. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Boiling the octopus beforehand ensures tenderness before grilling.
- Grill at high heat for a good sear without drying it out.
- Lemon herb oil can be made ahead for deeper flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 lb
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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