What To Serve With Grilled Octopus (25 BEST Sides!)

Grilled octopus is a delicacy that often brings a touch of seaside sophistication to your dinner table.

Its preparation is an art, involving tenderising and grilling to achieve the perfect char and texture.

Making the right choices for what to serve with grilled octopus is key to enhancing its flavour and presenting a well-rounded dish.

Just need a quick answer? 

No worries! 

The best side dishes for grilled octopus include olives and feta cheese, hummus and pita bread, arugula and parmesan salad, Greek salad, roast potatoes, bean salad, and lemon rice.  

Fresh, zesty sides can complement the subtle sweetness of the octopus, while crunchy elements add contrast to its tender flesh.

Rich, savoury accompaniments work well to round off the dish, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Opting for dishes with Mediterranean flair pairs harmoniously with the origin of many octopus recipes.

Think of ingredients like olives, citrus fruits, and olive oil which are not only traditional but also echo the freshness of coastal cuisine.

Whether you’re aiming for something light or a heartier pairing, there’s an array of options to suit your taste.

Let’s take a look at some more ideas and serving suggestions… 

Appetisers to Pair with Grilled Octopus

Selecting the right appetisers can set the stage for your grilled octopus dish by complementing its flavours and preparing the palate.

Mediterranean-Inspired Starters

Olives & Feta Cheese: A simple yet flavourful duo, marinated olives accompanied by creamy feta cheese provide a salty kick that balances the umami of octopus perfectly.

Hummus with Pita Bread: Smooth, rich hummus served with warm pita triangles isn’t just delicious; it’s a classic starter that echoes the Mediterranean origins of your main dish.

Seasonal Salads

Arugula & Parmesan Salad: A light salad with peppery arugula, shaved Parmesan, and a lemon-olive oil dressing complements the chargrilled taste without overpowering it.

Fresh Tomato & Basil Salad:

Ingredients	Quantity
Ripe tomatoes	3 medium, sliced
Fresh basil	Handful, torn
Olive oil	To drizzle
Balsamic vinegar	A splash
Sea salt	A pinch

 

Toss these ingredients together for a salad that’s both refreshing and a vibrant preamble to the smoky octopus.

Side Dishes to Complement Grilled Octopus

Selecting the right side dishes can enhance your enjoyment of the succulent, slightly charred flavours of grilled octopus.

Vegetable Sides

For a light and refreshing option, consider a Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese. It’s a simple yet classic pairing.

If you prefer something warm, sautéed greens, such as spinach or Swiss chard, delicately seasoned with garlic, offer a nutritious choice for what to serve with grilled octopus. 

Starchy Sides

Potatoes make for a hearty and traditional choice, especially when roasted with rosemary and sea salt to echo the oceanic flair.

A Mediterranean-inspired bean salad, replete with cannellini or butter beans, olive oil, and fresh herbs, lends satisfying richness without overwhelming the palatable octopus.

Rice and Grains

A side of lemon-infused rice provides a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the grilled octopus, while a peppering of chopped herbs adds colour and fragrance.

Alternatively, couscous or quinoa tossed with roast vegetables brings texture and a pleasant earthiness to your dining experience.

Sauces and Dressings

Grilled octopus pairs marvellously with a variety of sauces and dressings, each amplifying the dish’s flavours. Here are some specific options to enhance your meal.

Citrusy Sauces

Citrusy sauces provide a refreshing zing that complements the meaty texture of grilled octopus.

A simple yet effective choice is a lemon vinaigrette, made by whisking together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, a dash of Dijon mustard, and a hint of honey.

Alternatively, try an orange and basil sauce by blending orange juice, zest, a small amount of white wine vinegar, and fresh basil leaves.

Herb-Infused Oils

Herb-infused oils are a splendid way to add a subtle yet distinct flavour.

Begin by gently heating extra virgin olive oil with your choice of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.

Once the oil has taken on the herb’s aroma, let it cool, and drizzle it over your grilled octopus.

These oils not only boost taste but also create an inviting presentation.

Traditional Dips

For a more authentic choice for what to serve with grilled octopus, traditional dips are the way to go.

One classic option is tzatziki, a comforting mixture of Greek yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. Simply combine the ingredients and season to taste.

Another traditional dip is skordalia, a garlicky blend made with pureed potatoes, plenty of garlic, a splash of vinegar, and olive oil, which perfectly balances the dish’s smokiness.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Selecting the right wine or beverage to complement your grilled octopus can elevate your dining experience.

Consider the octopus’s flavour profile and your chosen seasonings when matching it with these suggestions.

White Wines

• Albariño: This crisp Spanish wine pairs wonderfully with seafood, offering peach and citrus notes that complement the tender octopus.
• Vermentino: Look for a light-bodied Vermentino with a hint of minerality to balance the grilled flavours.

Rosé and Light Red Wines

• Provence Rosé: A dry Rosé with its subtle fruitiness will not overpower the delicate taste of octopus.
• Pinot Noir: Opt for a light Pinot Noir with low tannins for a smooth pairing with your grilled dish.

Non-Alcoholic Options

• Sparkling Water: A glass of chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate between bites.
• Iced Herbal Tea: Mild herbs like mint or chamomile in an iced tea form a refreshing contrast to the smoky notes of grilled octopus.

Desserts to Follow Grilled Octopus

After enjoying the savoury taste of grilled octopus, cleansing your palate with a dessert is a delightful way to round off your meal.

Here are curated options that pair beautifully with the dish.

Light and Fruity Desserts

Opt for a fruit salad featuring ripe, seasonal fruits.

You can dice mangoes, strawberries, and kiwi, then toss them with a drizzle of honey and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Alternatively, try a refreshing lemon sorbet that contrasts the richness of octopus. Its icy zest will invigorate your taste buds.

Creamy Desserts

Indulge in a classic tiramisu, layered with mascarpone, and delicate sponge fingers soaked in espresso.

Then, it’s dusted with cocoa powder.

Its creaminess is a perfect foil to the chargrilled flavours.

For a simpler treat, enjoy a bowl of Greek yoghurt with a swirl of honey and a sprinkling of crushed walnuts. It’s creamy and comforting with a touch of sweetness.

What’s your favourite choice for what to serve with grilled octopus? 

Leave a comment and share your ideas! 

For more inspiration, check out salads that go with seafood.