Description
Citrus-Spiced Octopus paired with Crunchy Broccolini is a vibrant seafood dish featuring tender, pan-seared octopus seasoned with warm spices and bright citrus zest, served alongside crisp-tender broccolini for a balanced and elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add octopus, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45–60 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Cut octopus into large pieces and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, citrus zests, orange juice, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Toss octopus in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear octopus for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred.
- In another pan, heat remaining olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add broccolini and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly crisp. Season with salt and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Plate broccolini and top with citrus-spiced octopus. Drizzle any remaining juices over the top and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not overcook during the searing stage to maintain tenderness.
- Octopus can be tenderized by freezing and thawing beforehand.
- Pairs well with a light white wine.
- Best enjoyed fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmer and Sear
- Cuisine: Mediterranean