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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
Charred Greek Grilled Octopus with Lemon
elegantsimplegreekmediterraneanseafoodtendercrispyweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Pat octopus dry. Season cut-side and tentacles generously with salt, pepper, and oregano.

  2. Step 2

    Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat until it smokes, ~3 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Place octopus cut-side down on the hot skillet without moving. Sear 3–4 minutes until charred and crispy.

  4. Step 4

    Flip and sear the tentacle side 2–3 minutes. Flesh should be tender when pierced; edges deeply charred.

  5. Step 5

    Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, and zest while still in the pan. Tilt and coat 30 seconds.

  6. Step 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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