Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

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Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)

A flavorful dish featuring tender charred octopus paired with a zesty chili lime romesco sauce.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min
Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of octopus with sauce)

Octopus

  • 1
    small octopus
  • Sunflower oil
  • Mediterranean seasoning
  • Salt

Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

  • 2
    large roasted bell peppers
  • 1
    Fresh chili (optional)
  • 2tbsp
    sunflower oil
  • 2clove
    garlic
  • 2
    limes, juiced
  • 1bundle
    fresh coriander
  • Salt and black pepper

How to make Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

Prepare the Octopus

  1. Place the octopus in a pan of water and bring it to a simmer over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.

    Step 1.1: Place the octopus in a pan of water and bring it to a simmer over high heat
  2. Check doneness by piercing with a fork; the octopus should be tender. Remove from water and pat dry.

Season and Sear

  1. Coat the octopus with sunflower oil, Mediterranean seasoning, and salt.

  2. Pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until the exterior is crispy.

Make the Sauce

  1. Blend roasted bell peppers, chili, sunflower oil, garlic, lime juice, and coriander until smooth.

    Step 3.1: Blend roasted bell peppers, chili, sunflower oil, garlic, lime juice, and coriander until smooth
  2. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. Plate the charred octopus with a generous dollop of chili lime romesco sauce. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

    Step 3.1: Plate the charred octopus with a generous dollop of chili lime romesco sauce

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

60.0kcal (3%)

Protein

0.5g (1%)

Carbs

2.5g (0.91%)

Sugars

0.3g (0.5%)

Healthy Fat

6.3g

Unhealthy Fat

0.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the octopus in the seasoning for a few hours before cooking.

  2. Adjust the amount of fresh chili in the sauce to suit your spice preference.

FAQS

  1. How do I properly cook octopus to ensure it's tender for my Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce?

    To cook octopus tenderly, start by simmering it in a pan of water over high heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat and let it cook for about 25 minutes. Check for doneness by piercing it with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy. After cooking, pat it dry before seasoning and searing.

  2. What are some dietary considerations for the Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce?

    This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made suitable for a low-carb diet. However, if you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, consider substituting the octopus with grilled vegetables or tofu, and use a plant-based sauce instead of the romesco.

  3. Can I make substitutions for the ingredients in the chili lime romesco sauce?

    Absolutely! If you don't have roasted bell peppers, you can use fresh bell peppers and roast them yourself, or substitute with jarred roasted red peppers. For a spicier kick, add more fresh chili or use a different type of chili pepper. If you’re out of coriander, parsley can be a good alternative.

  4. How should I store leftover Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce?

    Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the octopus in a pan over low heat to avoid toughening it. The romesco sauce can be stored separately and used as a dip or dressing for other dishes.

  5. What are some good side dishes to pair with Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce?

    This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up the romesco sauce. A fresh salad with citrus dressing or grilled vegetables also complements the flavors nicely. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or rice.

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Diana Opoti

(@dianaopotieats)

Self taught cook making restaurant style food. ...

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