If you’re looking to try something new and exciting for dinner tonight, why not give this delicious pan-seared octopus recipe a try? It’s full of flavour and sure to impress your taste buds with a blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs that perfectly complement the tender texture of the octopus.

Ingredients

• 1 large octopus, cleaned and prepared (about 2-3 lbs)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 tsp of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the octopus by cutting off the head and tentacles and discarding the beak. Rinse the octopus thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the octopus with salt and pepper.
4. Add the olive oil to the pan and wait for it to start sizzling.
5. Carefully add the octopus to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Add the minced garlic, oregano, and lemon zest to the pan and stir for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
7. Add the lemon juice to the pan and cook the octopus for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until fully cooked.
8. Remove the octopus from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.
9. Before serving, slice the octopus into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with the pan sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This pan-seared octopus is a perfect addition to any meal. Serve it as a main course with some steamed vegetables on the side, or pair it with a salad for a light and refreshing meal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try adding some sliced chorizo or grilled shrimp to the mix!.

Related Article The recipe of the day: grilled octopus with black bean sauce

Tips and Tricks

• Make sure to pat the octopus dry before seasoning and searing to prevent any excess moisture from creating steam in the pan and interfering with the searing process.
• If your pan isn’t large enough to fit the entire octopus, you can cut it into sections before cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each piece.
• For an extra punch of flavour, try marinating your octopus in lemon juice and oregano for a few hours before cooking. This will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with additional flavour.
• If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can leave it out of the recipe or substitute it with some chopped shallots or onions for a milder flavour.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned seafood enthusiast or a curious home cook looking to try something new, this pan-seared octopus recipe is perfect for you.

It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.