Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Herb Vinaigrette

Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Herb Vinaigrette. Imagine if your favorite summer salad got grilled and turned into an octopus. This dish is juicy, smoky, and herby, with a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It's perfect for a summer cookout or a light and refreshing dinner.

The story of grilled octopus with lemon and herb vinaigrette is a tale as old as time. Well, not quite that old, but it's definitely been around for centuries. Octopus has been a popular food source in Mediterranean cultures for thousands of years, and grilling it is one of the best ways to cook it. The high heat of the grill sears the outside of the octopus, creating a smoky, charred flavor, while the inside remains tender and juicy. The lemon and herb vinaigrette adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the octopus perfectly. This dish is simple to make, but it's sure to impress your friends and family.

Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the octopus, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
4. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Remove the octopus from the marinade and shake off any excess.
6. Grill the octopus for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and additional oregano and thyme, if desired.

Why It Works

• The high heat of the grill sears the outside of the octopus, creating a smoky, charred flavor.
• The inside of the octopus remains tender and juicy.
• The lemon and herb vinaigrette adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the octopus perfectly.
• This dish is simple to make, but it's sure to impress your friends and family.