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
- Thaw: If using frozen octopus, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight.
- 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
- Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cool and Cut: Once the octopus is tender, drain and let it cool slightly. Cut the octopus into manageable pieces.
- 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
- Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill Octopus: Grill the octopus pieces for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and heated through.
Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
- 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
- How do I know when the octopus is tender?
The octopus should be easy to pierce with a fork and should feel tender. - Can I use a different marinade?
Yes, you can experiment with other herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary. - How can I make sure the octopus doesn’t become chewy?
Proper cooking and tenderizing are key to avoiding a chewy texture. - Can I grill the octopus if it’s still frozen?
It’s best to thaw the octopus first to ensure even cooking. - What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan or broil the octopus in your oven. - How long should I marinate the octopus?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Longer marination enhances the taste. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and cook the octopus a day ahead. Reheat before serving. - What other side dishes go well with grilled octopus?
Greek salad, tzatziki, or roasted vegetables complement the dish well. - 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. - 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.
PrintPickled Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onions, and Cucumbers
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
These vibrant and tangy pickled cherry tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers are a perfect condiment for sandwiches, salads, or as a refreshing appetizer. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber. Thinly slice the red onion and cucumber.
- Make the Pickling Liquid: In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pour the Pickling Liquid Over the Vegetables: Place the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber in a jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Add the Dill: Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jar or container tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 weeks. The pickled vegetables will become more flavorful the longer they are refrigerated.
- Serve: Serve the pickled vegetables as a condiment or appetizer. Enjoy!
Notes
- These pickled vegetables make a great addition to salads or can be enjoyed on their own as a snack.
- The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become, so feel free to make them in advance!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes