Step 1: Prepare the Marinade for the Octopus

• Start by preparing the marinade for the baby octopus. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, and orange juice and zest. The citrus will infuse the octopus with fresh, vibrant flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the bowl. These spices add warmth and depth to the dish, making the octopus beautifully fragrant and flavorful.
• Season the marinade with a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
• Gently toss the baby octopus in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the octopus sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour if you have the time. This step will allow the flavors to meld and soak into the octopus.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccolini

• While the octopus is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up while you prep the broccolini.
• Trim the ends of the broccolini stalks and arrange them in a single layer on the hot baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the broccolini to ensure it’s evenly coated.
• Roast the broccolini in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tips are crispy and slightly charred. This step gives the broccolini a wonderful crunch while keeping the stalks tender. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Cook the Octopus

• While the broccolini is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little bit of olive oil and let it heat up.
• Carefully add the marinated octopus to the pan in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want to give the octopus enough space to sear and cook evenly.
• Sauté the octopus for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the octopus is tender and slightly golden. The key is to cook it just long enough for it to become tender, without overcooking, which can make it tough.
• Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Plate the Dish

• To plate the dish, arrange the roasted broccolini on a serving platter, creating a base for the octopus.
• Gently place the citrus-spiced baby octopus on top of the broccolini, arranging it in a way that looks beautiful and appetizing.
• If desired, garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color.