Do Share Recipe

I recently tried making this Citrus Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini Recipe, and I have to say, it was an absolute delight. The citrusy zing perfectly balanced the tender, flavorful octopus, while the broccolini added a satisfying crunch. I love how quick and easy this recipe is, yet it feels gourmet enough for special occasions.

Every bite bursts with freshness, warmth, and a touch of spice. Let me share with you my step-by-step process to make this dish at home. If you enjoy seafood recipes, you might also like my Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe for another elegant, citrus-infused fish dish.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish perfectly:

500 g baby octopus, cleaned – make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil – adds subtle richness without overpowering.
2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the seafood flavor beautifully.
1 teaspoon ginger, minced – gives a warm, aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – balances the citrus with umami depth.
Orange zest from 1 orange – adds bright, fresh notes.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – enriches flavor and gives a nutty aroma.
300 g broccolini, trimmed – keeps the dish crunchy and fresh.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds – for a delicate, toasty finish.
Chilli flakes, to taste – optional, for a mild heat boost.
Fresh orange juice from 1 orange – gives a zesty, tangy dressing.
Fresh herbs for garnish – parsley or coriander works well.

Note: Serves 4 generously.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to suit your preferences:

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Swap sesame oil with avocado oil for a milder taste.
Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Replace broccolini with asparagus or green beans for seasonal variations.
For a spicier kick, use fresh chopped chilli instead of flakes.
For hearty protein variations, you might enjoy my Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe for a rich, comforting dinner option.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Frying pan or skillet – for searing the octopus.
Mixing bowl – to marinate the octopus evenly.
Zester – to get the perfect orange zest.
Knife and chopping board – for prepping garlic, ginger, and broccolini.
Serving plate – to present your dish beautifully.

How to Make Citrus Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini?

Marinate the Octopus

First, combine garlic, ginger, orange zest, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil in a bowl. Toss the baby octopus in this mixture and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate the octopus for a deeper, more aromatic taste.

Prepare the Broccolini

While the octopus marinates, heat olive oil in a pan. Add broccolini and sauté lightly until crisp-tender. Sprinkle sesame seeds during the last minute for a nutty crunch. This keeps the greens fresh and vibrant without losing texture.

Cook the Octopus

In a hot skillet, sear the marinated octopus for 3–4 minutes on each side. Finish with a sprinkle of chilli flakes and a squeeze of fresh orange juice. The octopus should be tender but slightly charred for that smoky flavor.

Combine and Serve

Gently toss the cooked octopus and broccolini together. Drizzle any leftover citrus marinade over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for a visually stunning dish.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, these tweaks make a big difference:

I always marinate the octopus at least 15 minutes longer for more depth.
Using fresh orange juice instead of bottled really brightens the dish.
Don’t overcook the broccolini; it should remain slightly crisp.
Toast sesame seeds lightly for extra aroma.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Citrus Spiced Baby Octopus with Crunchy Broccolini?

I like to serve this dish on a large platter for a family-style presentation. Sprinkle extra herbs and sesame seeds on top. Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Drizzle a little more orange juice just before serving to enhance freshness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview per serving:

Calories: 220 – perfect for a light yet filling meal.
Protein: 20 g – great for a protein-rich dinner.
Carbohydrates: 15 g – mainly from broccolini and orange juice.
Fat: 10 g – balanced with olive and sesame oils.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing cooked octopus as it can turn rubbery. Marinate the octopus beforehand and freeze uncooked if needed.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness. Avoid the microwave to prevent chewy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this dish has become one of my favorites:

Quick and easy – ready in under an hour.
Packed with flavor – the citrus, spice, and sesame create a perfect balance.
Versatile – easily paired with salads, grains, or pasta.
Healthy – low in calories and high in protein.
Gourmet feel – elegant enough for dinner parties but simple to make.

This citrus spiced baby octopus with crunchy broccolini is one of those recipes that impresses without complicated steps. Every bite combines the sweetness of orange, the warmth of spices, and the fresh crunch of greens. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a new favorite in your seafood repertoire.

Ben Carraoli