Charred Greek Grilled Octopus with Lemon
Tender octopus char-grilled until smoky with crispy edges, finished with flaming lemon oil and fresh oregano. A TikTok-viral Greek taverna classic ready in 15 minutes.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 320
- Protein
- 42g
Ingredients
- 1 lb octopus, cleaned and halved lengthwise
- 1 whole lemon (juiced + zested)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 whole lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- 1
Pat octopus dry. Season cut-side and tentacles generously with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- 2
Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat until it smokes, ~3 minutes.
- 3
Place octopus cut-side down on the hot skillet without moving. Sear 3–4 minutes until charred and crispy.
- 4
Flip and sear the tentacle side 2–3 minutes. Flesh should be tender when pierced; edges deeply charred.
- 5
Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, and zest while still in the pan. Tilt and coat 30 seconds.
- 6
Slide onto a plate. Serve with lemon wedges and remaining olive oil for dipping.
Tools you’ll need
- 12-inch cast iron skillet or grill pan
- tongs
- paper towels
- cutting board
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