Simple Greek Grilled Octopus (Authentic Mediterranean Recipe)

If you've never tried grilled octopus the Greek way, you're seriously missing out. This Simple Greek Grilled Octopus is tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor thanks to olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. It's one of the most iconic dishes in Mediterranean cuisine — surprisingly easy to prepare and even easier to fall in love with.

Whether you’ve had it at a seaside taverna in Santorini or you’re looking for something new to toss on the grill this weekend, this recipe will give you perfectly charred, flavorful octopus every time. No fuss. No over-complicated steps. Just good food, the Greek way.

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🐙 Why You’ll Love This Greek Grilled Octopus

• Tender, not rubbery – The secret is in the slow simmer before the grill

• Flavor-packed – Thanks to simple but bold Greek ingredients

• Surprisingly easy – Minimal prep, just some patience and a hot grill

• Perfect for summer – Light, healthy, and pairs with just about any side

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🛒 Ingredients for Greek Grilled Octopus

Here’s everything you’ll need for this classic Greek-style seafood dish:

• 1 whole octopus (2–3 pounds, cleaned)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 lemon (halved)

• 3 cloves garlic (crushed)

• 1 tbsp black peppercorns

• Salt to taste

For the marinade:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tsp dried oregano (Greek oregano if possible)

• Optional: Fresh parsley or extra lemon wedges for serving

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🔥 How to Cook Octopus on the Grill (Greek-Style)

Step 1: Simmer the Octopus

Before you grill it, you need to tenderize the octopus.

1. In a large pot, add the octopus, bay leaf, lemon halves, garlic, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.

2. Cover with water and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 45–60 minutes, or until fork-tender.

4. Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then cut into large manageable pieces (usually by tentacle).

Step 2: Marinate

While still warm, toss the octopus in a bowl with olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, and oregano. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).

Step 3: Grill Time!

1. Heat your grill to high.

2. Place the octopus on the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until lightly charred.

3. Remove, slice if desired, and drizzle with more olive oil and fresh lemon juice before serving.

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🧠 Tips for Grilling the Best Octopus

• Don’t skip the simmering: That’s how you get the perfect tender texture

• Grill hot and fast: You just want to sear it, not dry it out

• Use good olive oil: It makes all the difference in flavor

• Marinate while warm: It absorbs more flavor when it’s still a little warm

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🍷 What to Serve with Greek Grilled Octopus

• Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta

• Roasted potatoes or lemon herb rice

• Tzatziki or skordalia (garlic dip)

• Crusty bread with olive oil for dipping

• A chilled glass of ouzo, white wine, or rosé

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🌍 Greek Cuisine Vibes: A Taste of the Islands

Octopus is a staple in Greek cooking, especially in the islands where fresh seafood reigns supreme. You’ll find it drying in the sun near harbors, then grilled to perfection and served with a splash of olive oil and lemon — nothing fancy, just quality ingredients and time-honored techniques.

This dish brings those Aegean island vibes straight to your backyard. Light, healthy, and full of Mediterranean charm.

🧊 How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store grilled octopus in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Best served cold or gently reheated in a skillet — don’t microwave or it may toughen.

• Use in salads: Chop leftovers and toss with greens, beans, or pasta for a quick lunch.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This Simple Greek Grilled Octopus is proof that great food doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a bit of prep, you can bring a taste of Greece right to your dinner table. Whether you're a seafood lover or trying octopus for the first time, this dish is bound to impress.

It’s tender, smoky, and bursting with that Mediterranean goodness we all love. So light the grill, pour a glass of wine, and let the flavors transport you to the Greek islands.