Grilled Octopus with Turf Combo

Name: Grilled Octopus with Turf Combo
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 kg octopus, cleaned; 1/2 cup olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 500g beef steaks; 500g chicken thighs, boneless; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making grilled octopus, and this Turf Combo takes it to another level. The combination of tender, smoky octopus with savory meats creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress any guest. The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the octopus beautifully. Trust me, dedicating a little extra time to marinate the octopus makes all the difference. You won’t believe how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results right at home!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:02:30.839Z

When I first tried grilled octopus, I was blown away by how tender and flavorful it was. I learned that the key to achieving this is in the marinating process. Using a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs not only imparts flavor but also helps break down the proteins for a softer bite. I typically let mine marinate for about an hour to really soak up that goodness.

Grilling the octopus adds a beautiful char that complements its natural taste perfectly. As a tip, be sure to use high heat for a short amount of time to keep it juicy. It’s an incredibly satisfying dish to prepare and enjoy with friends or family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly tender and smoky flavor
Unique meat combination that enhances every bite
Impressive presentation for entertaining

      

Marinating the Octopus

The marinade for the octopus is crucial in achieving the desired tenderness and flavor. Allowing the octopus to marinate for at least one hour not only infuses it with bold flavors but also helps to break down tougher muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. If you have more time, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator for richer flavor. The acidity from the lemon juice not only tenderizes but also adds a bright zest that complements the smoky char you'll achieve from grilling.

When marinating, make sure each part of the octopus is well-coated with the marinade. Use a large sealable bag or a covered bowl to ensure even distribution. If you notice that some of the octopus is floating above the marinade, give it a gentle stir or flip it halfway through the marinating process to ensure it absorbs all the flavors evenly.

Perfecting the Grill Technique

Getting the grill hot enough is key to achieving the perfect char on both the octopus and the meats. Preheat your grill to high heat—about 400°F to 450°F (204°C to 232°C) is ideal. When the grill is ready, a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately upon contact. Use a grill brush to clean the grates before cooking to avoid any sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks on your octopus and Turf Combo.

For the octopus, grilling for only 3-4 minutes on each side is sufficient; look for a glossy, charred exterior as a visual cue that it’s done. Likewise, for the beef and chicken, depending on thickness, you'll want to achieve a nice crust—typically 5-7 minutes per side suffices. If unsure about doneness, use a thermometer: beef steaks should be around 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, while chicken needs to reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Ingredients

Please gather the following ingredients for this delicious grilled octopus recipe.

For the Grilled Octopus

1 kg octopus, cleaned
1/2 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Turf Combo

500g beef steaks
500g chicken thighs, boneless
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your grilled octopus with turf combo.

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the cleaned octopus and marinate for at least 1 hour.

Prepare Meat for Turf Combo

Season beef steaks and chicken thighs with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let them rest for about 30 minutes.

Grill the Octopus

Preheat the grill to high heat. Grill the marinated octopus for about 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest.

Grill the Turf Combo

On the same grill, add the seasoned beef and chicken. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until your desired doneness is reached.

Serve

Slice the octopus and arrange it on a platter alongside the grilled meats. Enjoy your meal with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Enjoy your delicious grilled octopus with turf combo!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, try to grill the octopus just before serving to maintain its tenderness and juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your platter with additional lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This not only adds color but also hints at the flavors within. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the meats. Pairing with a crisp white wine or a light lager can enhance the dining experience, complementing the smoky and savory notes of the dish.

For an extra touch, you can drizzle a homemade chimichurri or garlic aioli on the platter. This also adds a delicious dip for the meats and octopus, enhancing the flavor profile and inviting guests to customize their bites.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled octopus and meats separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. Reheating can be done gently on a grill or stovetop; avoid the microwave as it can cause the octopus to become rubbery. Heat the grill to a lower temperature and warm the meats for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and still juicy.

For those looking to prep ahead, you can marinate the octopus a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows for even more flavor development. Additionally, the meats can be seasoned and left to rest overnight, just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I know when the octopus is fully cooked?

The octopus should be tender and have a slightly opaque appearance. It typically takes about 10 minutes of grilling once marinated.

→ Can I use frozen octopus?

Yes, but ensure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating to avoid excess water on the grill.

→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Mediterranean salads, grilled vegetables, or a light rice pilaf are great accompaniments.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet.