Grilled Octopus with Lemon Aioli

Name: Grilled Octopus with Lemon Aioli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 kg octopus, cleaned; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Multinational Kitchen Ideas

Experience the delightful flavors of the sea with our Grilled Octopus with Lemon Aioli. This dish combines tender, smoky octopus with a zesty, creamy dipping sauce that enhances its natural taste.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T19:21:05.611Z

This Grilled Octopus recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking to impress at their next dinner party. The combination of grilled octopus and a refreshing lemon aioli creates a dish that is both flavorful and visually stunning.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender octopus infused with smoky grill flavors
Creamy lemon aioli that complements the seafood perfectly
A show-stopping dish that impresses guests

      

The Art of Grilling Octopus

Grilling octopus may seem daunting, but with the right techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. The key to tender octopus lies in the cooking method before grilling. Boiling the octopus in salted water not only ensures tenderness but also allows the flavors to infuse deeply. It's essential to cook it until just tender, as overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.

Once boiled and cooled, marinating the octopus in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and spices adds layers of flavor. The marinade not only enhances the taste but also helps in achieving that desirable smoky char on the grill. Be sure to let the octopus soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes to fully absorb the flavors.

Lemon Aioli: A Perfect Pairing

Lemon aioli is the perfect accompaniment for grilled octopus, enhancing the dish with its zesty, creamy profile. This simple sauce takes just minutes to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. The combination of mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and garlic offers a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the octopus.

To ensure your aioli is perfectly balanced, adjust the lemon juice to taste. If you prefer a tangier dip, add a bit more lemon juice or zest. This versatility allows you to customize the aioli to suit your palate, making it a delightful addition to various dishes beyond just octopus.

Serving Suggestions

When serving grilled octopus with lemon aioli, presentation is key. Arrange the octopus pieces on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a pop of color. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites your guests to dive in and enjoy.

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors will create a memorable dining experience that your guests will rave about.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Octopus

1 kg octopus, cleaned
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, zested and juiced

For the Lemon Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Octopus

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the octopus and cook for 30 minutes until tender. Remove and let cool. Once cooled, cut into manageable pieces.

Marinate the Octopus

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the octopus pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Octopus

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated octopus for about 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and crispy.

Make the Lemon Aioli

In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt until well combined.

Serve

Serve the grilled octopus with the lemon aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Grilling

To achieve perfect grill marks and flavor, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the octopus. A well-heated grill helps to sear the octopus quickly, locking in the juices while creating a beautiful char. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lead to steaming rather than grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.

Keep an eye on the octopus while grilling, as it can cook quickly. Aim for a time of about 3-4 minutes per side, turning only once to develop those signature grill marks. The octopus is done when it is charred and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover grilled octopus, fear not! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking. A quick sear on a hot skillet can bring back the original texture without drying it out.

Lemon aioli can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness. This versatile dip can be used on sandwiches, salads, or as a dip for other grilled seafood, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen octopus?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with grilled octopus?

It pairs well with salad, grilled vegetables, or a light pasta.

→ How do I know when the octopus is cooked?

It should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.

→ Can I prepare the aioli in advance?

Yes, you can make the aioli a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.