Charred Octopus with Lemon & Garlic
Tender octopus seared until edges char and crisp, finished with hot garlic oil and fresh lemon. A TikTok-easy take on pulpo a la brasa that's ready in under 30 minutes.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 310
- Protein
- 38g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add octopus and simmer 15 minutes until tender but still firm.
Step 2
Drain octopus and pat dry. Cut into bite-sized pieces, leaving some tentacles whole for texture.
Step 3
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high until it shimmers. Working in batches, sear octopus 2 minutes per side until edges char.
Step 4
Transfer octopus to a plate. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil and garlic to the skillet, cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5
Pour garlic oil over octopus. Add red pepper flakes, squeeze lemon juice, season with salt. Toss to coat.
Step 6
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tools you’ll need
- large pot
- 12-inch cast iron skillet or large heavy skillet
- paper towels
- knife and cutting board
- wooden spoon
- tongs
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