Crispy Baby Octopus with Garlic Lemon Butter

Servings

4 servings

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Octopus

• 2 lbs (900 g) baby octopus, cleaned

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Juice of 2 lemons

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh red chili slices

• Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Octopus

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.

2. Add the baby octopus and simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender.

3. Drain and allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Season

1. Toss the octopus with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

2. Mix until evenly coated.

Step 3: Crisp the Octopus

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.

2. Sear the octopus for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and caramelized.

3. Remove and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in a small saucepan.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and honey.

4. Simmer for 1 minute.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Arrange the crispy octopus on a serving platter.

2. Drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce.

3. Garnish with parsley, chili slices, and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 30 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 6 g

• Fiber: 1 g

Chef's Tips

• Simmering first ensures tender octopus before crisping.

• Pat the octopus dry before searing to achieve maximum caramelization.

• A hot cast-iron skillet produces the best texture.

• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.

• Finish with flaky sea salt just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted garlic potatoes

• Greek salad

• Crusty artisan bread

• Grilled vegetables

• Chilled white wine

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Tender baby octopus with crispy charred edges, bright lemon butter, garlic, and a touch of heat creates an unforgettable Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish. It's elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a special weekend dinner at home.