Name: Zesty Citrus-Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds (700g) baby octopus – cleaned: This is the star of the dish, offering a delightful ocean flavor and tender texture.; 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for marinating the octopus and sautéing the broccolini, it adds richness to the dish.; Juice and zest of 1 orange: These elements provide a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the overall freshness.; Juice and zest of 1 lemon: Similar to the orange, lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors.; 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth and aroma, making the dish more inviting.; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This ingredient introduces a subtle smokiness, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin provides warmth and earthiness, a perfect complement to the other spices.; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat, which can be adjusted based on your preference.; Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s flavor.; 1 bunch (about 8 ounces) broccolini, trimmed: This vegetable adds crunch and a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the citrus.; 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it ensures the broccolini is nicely cooked and flavored.; 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the dish.; 2 teaspoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and enhances the overall taste of the broccolini.; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: This can soften the dish’s flavors, creating a harmony with the savory elements.; 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds: They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor as a topping for the broccolini.; Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to flavor the sautéed broccolini properly.; Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright herb that enhances the visual presentation and freshness.; Lemon or orange wedges: These can be served on the side for additional citrus flavor when plating.

Description

Experience bold flavors with zesty citrus-spiced baby octopus paired with crunchy broccolini—a delightful dish for seafood lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds (700g) baby octopus – cleaned: This is the star of the dish, offering a delightful ocean flavor and tender texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for marinating the octopus and sautéing the broccolini, it adds richness to the dish.
Juice and zest of 1 orange: These elements provide a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the overall freshness.
Juice and zest of 1 lemon: Similar to the orange, lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth and aroma, making the dish more inviting.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This ingredient introduces a subtle smokiness, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin provides warmth and earthiness, a perfect complement to the other spices.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat, which can be adjusted based on your preference.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s flavor.

For the Broccolini:

1 bunch (about 8 ounces) broccolini, trimmed: This vegetable adds crunch and a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the citrus.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it ensures the broccolini is nicely cooked and flavored.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the dish.
2 teaspoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and enhances the overall taste of the broccolini.
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: This can soften the dish’s flavors, creating a harmony with the savory elements.
1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds: They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor as a topping for the broccolini.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to flavor the sautéed broccolini properly.

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright herb that enhances the visual presentation and freshness.
Lemon or orange wedges: These can be served on the side for additional citrus flavor when plating.

Instructions

Prepare the Baby Octopus: Start by cleaning the baby octopus if it’s not pre-cleaned. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 orange, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Add the baby octopus, ensuring it is well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Baby Octopus: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated octopus, cooking for approximately 4-5 minutes per side until the octopus is tender and caramelized. Look for a nice golden brown color and a slightly crispy exterior. Remove from heat and let sit while you prepare the broccolini.
Prepare the Broccolini: Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccolini for about 2 minutes. This will keep its vibrant color and crisp texture. Immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain it well. In the same skillet you used for the octopus, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the blanched broccolini and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in 2 teaspoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of honey (or maple syrup), and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Top with 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Plate the Dish: Arrange the sautéed broccolini on a serving platter. Top it with the grilled octopus, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and garnish with lemon or orange wedges on the side for an extra zing of citrus when serving.