Polpo Alla Griglia

Polpo Alla Griglia

Polpo alla Griglia is a beloved Italian dish that showcases the delicate flavors of tender grilled octopus, perfectly complemented by a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Originating from coastal regions of Italy, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh seafood is celebrated. Each bite is a combination of smoky char from the grill and the refreshing brightness of lemon, making it an exquisite choice for dinner parties or a casual summer meal.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Octopus (2 pounds, cleaned)
  • Olive oil (1/4 cup, plus more for drizzling)
  • Lemon (2, juiced and zested)
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
  • Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon, to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.
  2. Rinse the octopus under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
  4. Add the cleaned octopus to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  5. Place the marinated octopus on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. The octopus is ready when it is charred and tender.
  6. Remove the octopus from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
  7. Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with the remaining olive oil and any leftover marinade.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for an added touch of freshness.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Marinating Time: 30 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes • Calories: 350 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 3g • Protein: 35g • Sodium: 450mg • Sugar: 1g