Description
This tender and flavorful baby octopus recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. Braised in aromatic herbs, marinated in a bold lemon-garlic blend, and seared to crispy perfection, it’s the perfect centerpiece for a seafood feast.
Ingredients
Scale
For Braising:
- 2 lbs baby octopus (fresh or frozen, pre-cleaned)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 handful parsley stems
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- Water (enough to cover octopus)
For Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges
- Red chili flakes
Instructions
- Braising:
- Place baby octopus, lemon slices, garlic, bay leaves, parsley stems, and peppercorns in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the octopus.
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 1 hour or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Marinating:
- While warm, toss the octopus in olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Ensure even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for 12–24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Searing/Grilling:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear marinated octopus for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing lightly for crispy edges.
- Serving:
- Arrange on a platter, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges, and serve warm.
Notes
- Braising ensures tender octopus, while marinating enhances flavor.
- For quicker prep, use frozen pre-cleaned baby octopus.
- Leftovers can be stored for 2–3 days and used in salads or seafood platters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1h
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising and Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1,5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6,5g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0,5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: baby octopus, Mediterranean baby octopus, grilled baby octopus, marinated baby octopus, tender baby octopus recipe, braised baby octopus, seafood recipes, crispy octopus legs