Looking for a stunning seafood dish that will impress your guests? Try this Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures from the Mediterranean. Packed with freshness and vibrant ingredients, this seafood dish recipe will transport your taste buds to sun-soaked shores.
This recipe combines tender grilled octopus with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect addition to your summer gatherings or a light dinner. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, so you don’t need to be a master chef to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Delightful Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad
This Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad is a feast for the senses.
Succulent pieces of grilled octopus lay elegantly over a vibrant bed of mixed greens,
juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory Kalamata olives.
The flavors intertwine beautifully, creating a refreshing yet satisfying experience.
The salad is a perfect choice for seafood dish recipes that aim to impress.
Each bite showcases the smoky, savory essence of the octopus, balanced by the freshness of the greens and tomatoes.
Preparation Steps
To create this delightful salad, start by preparing the octopus.
A gentle simmer in salted water ensures tenderness,
making it perfect for grilling.
Marinating the octopus enhances its flavor, allowing the olive oil, lemon juice, and smoked paprika to infuse each piece with a burst of zest.
Make sure to give it enough time to soak up those flavors!
The Grilling Process
Grilling brings a unique char that elevates the dish.
Cook the marinated octopus on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side until it’s beautifully marked and heated through.
This step not only adds texture but also enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a star attraction on your plate.
Salad Assembly
Assembling the salad is straightforward and fun.
Combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl.
Then, generously place the grilled octopus pieces on top.
Drizzling any leftover marinade or olive oil over the salad adds a final touch of richness and brightness.
Serving Suggestions
For maximum appeal, serve this salad immediately.
It’s perfect as a light dinner or as a stunning appetizer for gatherings.
The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will catch the eye of any guest.
Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that pop of color and added freshness.
This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also a visual treat!
Nutritional Benefits
This Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad is packed with nutrients.
With around 320 calories per serving, it offers healthy fat, protein, and minimal carbohydrates.
It’s a smart choice for those seeking a light yet fulfilling meal.
The presence of fresh vegetables adds valuable vitamins and minerals, making this seafood dish a wholesome option for any meal.
Delightful Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad
This Mediterranean Grilled Octopus Salad features succulent pieces of charred octopus served over a bed of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and olives, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The taste is a delightful balance of smoky, savory, and refreshing, creating a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for grilling
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Octopus: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the octopus and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until tender. Remove and let cool.
- Marinate: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Slice the cooled octopus into manageable pieces and toss them in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Octopus: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with olive oil and grill the octopus pieces for about 2-3 minutes on each side until charred and heated through.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion. Top with the grilled octopus.
- Serve: Drizzle with any remaining marinade or additional olive oil, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g