Description
This vibrant Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini recipe combines tender grilled baby octopus marinated in a zesty lemon and orange mixture with a smoky paprika and red pepper kick. Served atop a sautéed broccolini side seasoned with soy and rice vinegar, this dish offers a delightful Mediterranean-Asian fusion experience that’s perfect for a light yet flavorful main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Octopus Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds baby octopus, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Broccolini
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Garnish and Serving
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Octopus: In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil with the lemon and orange zest and juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Add the baby octopus, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready for cooking.
- Grill the Octopus: Place the marinated octopus on the grill, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Grill until the octopus develops a light char and becomes tender, ensuring not to overcook.
- Blanch the Broccolini: While grilling, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccolini and blanch for 2 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt cooking, then drain and pat dry thoroughly.
- Sauté the Broccolini: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the blanched broccolini and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until crisp-tender. Stir in the soy sauce and rice vinegar to coat the broccolini evenly with flavor.
- Plate the Dish: Arrange the grilled octopus over the sautéed broccolini. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if using, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy zing.
Notes
- If baby octopus is unavailable, squid can be used as a substitute with a similar cooking approach.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- For a more substantial meal, serve this dish alongside steamed rice or crusty bread to complement the flavors and provide balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Asian Fusion
