Description
Spanish Octopus, or Pulpo a la Gallega, is a classic dish from Spain that features tender octopus seasoned with paprika and olive oil. Served with boiled potatoes, this dish celebrates the natural flavors of octopus and is perfect as a starter or main course.
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs whole octopus (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (for boiling)
- 1 bay leaf (optional, for boiling)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (preferably Spanish)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
- 2 large potatoes, boiled and sliced (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the octopus: Rinse the octopus under cold water. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding sea salt and a bay leaf if desired. Add the octopus to the boiling water, reduce the heat, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
- Cool and slice the octopus: Once tender, remove the octopus from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Slice the tentacles into 1-inch thick pieces. You can also cut the head into smaller chunks if desired.
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes until tender. Slice them into rounds and set aside.
- Season the octopus: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced octopus and sauté for 2-3 minutes to add a slight sear. Sprinkle with smoked and sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Add fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the boiled potato slices on a platter, then top with the octopus. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Grilled octopus: After boiling, you can grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side to add smoky flavor.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetable alternatives: Try adding sautéed spinach or other greens for extra color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg