Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Mediterranean dish, you will need the following ingredients:
2.2 lbs (1 kg) fresh or thawed octopus
½ cup (100 ml) extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp sweet paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Octopus Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
Since octopus is a large ingredient with a unique texture, it is essential to prepare it properly before starting to cook. If using fresh octopus, start by cleaning the animal: remove the beak and entrails, then rinse it under cold water to remove any impurities. If using thawed octopus, make sure it is well drained before use.
See also Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
In a large saucepan, boil salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the octopus and let it cook for 30 to 40 minutes. This step is crucial for tenderizing the octopus, giving it a tender and pleasant texture. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the tentacles: they should be tender without resistance.
Once the octopus is cooked, drain it well and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle when cutting.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
While the octopus is cooling, prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade will give the octopus a rich and fragrant Mediterranean flavor. Mix all ingredients well to ensure the aromas blend perfectly.
Once the octopus has cooled, cut it into medium-sized pieces, making sure to maintain a beautiful presentation. Submerge the pieces in the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate for up to 2 hours. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the octopus and flavor it perfectly.
Cooking the Octopus
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The grill must be very hot before you begin cooking the octopus. A high temperature will allow for quick cooking and a slightly crispy texture on the outside, while maintaining the octopus’s tenderness on the inside.
Step 4: Grilling the Octopus
Place the marinated octopus pieces on the hot grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each piece is golden brown and slightly crispy. Do not leave the octopus on the grill for too long, as it may become rubbery. The goal is to create a beautiful golden crust while maintaining the tenderness on the inside.
When the octopus is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter.
See also: Stringy and Creamy Aubrac Aligot
Serving the Dish
To finish the dish, garnish the grilled octopus with freshly chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges. The lemon will add a touch of freshness that perfectly complements the grilled flavor of the octopus. You can also serve this dish with a refreshing Greek salad or pita bread to complete the Mediterranean culinary experience.
Preparation Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Calories
Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Tips and Variations
Extra virgin olive oil: For a more intense flavor For a richer dish, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This will add extra depth of flavor to the marinade.
Fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano, feel free to use it instead of dried. Fresh herbs will add an even more aromatic touch.
Spices: For those who like spicier flavors, you can add a pinch of Espelette pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade. This will add a little kick to your dish.
Sides: Grilled octopus pairs perfectly with a traditional Greek salad, including tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese. You can also add some basmati rice or pita bread for a more complete meal.
Extra garnish: For a touch of crunch, top the dish with toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds. Conclusion
Greek-style grilled octopus is a perfect dish for those seeking an authentic Mediterranean culinary experience. Easy to prepare, healthy, and delicious, it showcases the fresh ingredients and rich flavors of Greece. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a meal with friends, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
By following these simple steps, you can recreate the authentic taste of Greek-style grilled octopus at home and bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table.
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