How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the octopus up to 24 hours in advance for more flavor.

What if I don't have ouzo?

You can substitute with another anise-flavored liqueur or simply omit it.

Can I use frozen octopus?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

How can I ensure the octopus is tender?

Tenderize it by simmering in water with a cork or lightly pounding with a meat tenderizer before marinating.

Lemon-Thyme Grilled Greek Octopus with Ouzo Splash

Name: Lemon-Thyme Grilled Greek Octopus with Ouzo Splash
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Fresh octopus; Olive oil; Garlic; Lemon juice; Fresh thyme; Salt and pepper; Olive oil; Ouzo; Lemon wedges; Fresh parsley

A flavorful Mediterranean delight

Tender grilled octopus infused with lemon and thyme, finished with a splash of ouzo, brings the taste of Greece to your table.

2 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Octopus Marinade

Fresh octopus

2 lbs, cleaned

Olive oil

1/2 cup

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Lemon juice

1 lemon, juiced

Fresh thyme

2 tbsp

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Grilling Process

Olive oil

2 tbsp

Ouzo

1/2 cup

For the Garnish

Lemon wedges

1 lemon, sliced

Fresh parsley

2 tbsp, chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Octopus

Place octopus in bowl

Place the cleaned octopus in a large bowl.

Add marinade ingredients

Add olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.

Mix and refrigerate

Mix well, ensuring the octopus is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Preparing the Octopus for Grilling

Remove and rest

Remove marinated octopus from the refrigerator.

Bring to room temperature

Bring the octopus to room temperature before grilling, about 30 minutes.

Preheat the grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Cooking Process

Grill the octopus

Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil and place the octopus on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting frequently with marinade.

Splash with ouzo

Once grilled, remove the octopus and splash with ouzo to enhance flavor. Let rest for a few minutes.

Arrange and serve

Arrange the octopus tentacles on a serving platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

Plating & Serving