How to Make Pulpo a la Gallega at Home - Classic Spanish Octopus Dish

Authentic Spanish Pulpo Recipe: Octopus with Potatoes, Paprika powder, and Olives

Cooking time: 10 minutes
Serves: 2 people

Spanish cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, rustic charm, and dishes that can turn simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. One of the most iconic tapas you can serve at home is Pulpo a la Gallega, also known simply as Pulpo. This dish celebrates the natural tenderness of octopus, paired with creamy potatoes, smoky paprika powder, and rich olive oil.

Today, I am sharing my homemade Spanish Pulpo recipe, a quick and delicious dish that takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. It is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party, yet simple enough for a casual meal at home. With golden potatoes, briny olives, and perfectly cooked octopus, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Pulpo Recipe

Pulpo is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. Here’s why this dish has become one of my go-to Spanish recipes:

• Quick and Easy - Ready in less than 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Authentic Spanish Flavor - Paprika Powder and olive oil bring classic Mediterranean warmth.
• Elegant Presentation - Despite its simplicity, Pulpo looks restaurant-worthy.
• Healthy and Nutritious —Octopus is high in protein and low in fat, while potatoes provide comfort and balance.
• Flexible Recipe - You can use fresh or frozen octopus and adjust seasoning to taste.

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Ingredients for Pulpo (Spanish Octopus Dish)

To make this authentic Spanish Pulpo at home, you only need a handful of ingredients.

• Octopus - Fresh or frozen, thawed before cooking. About 300g–400g is enough for 2–3 servings.
• Potatoes - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Olives - A small handful, green or black depending on preference.
• Olive Oil - Generous amount for frying potatoes and adding richness.
• Paprika powder (Pimentón) – Smoked paprika powder is essential for authentic flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper - To season.

Optional additions: fresh parsley for garnish, lemon wedges for brightness, or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Spanish Pulpo

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

• Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
• Place them in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, and microwave for about 4 minutes until partially cooked.
• This step saves time and ensures the potatoes turn golden and crispy later.

Step 2: Fry the Potatoes

• Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a pan.
• Add the pre-cooked potatoes and fry until golden brown and slightly crispy.
• Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly.

Step 3: Add Olives and Seasoning

• Once the potatoes are golden, toss in a handful of olives.
• Season with salt and black pepper.
• Cook together for about 1 minute to let the flavors blend.

Step 4: Add Paprika and Octopus

• Sprinkle plenty of paprika powder over the potatoes and olives.
• Add the thawed octopus pieces to the pan.
• Cook quickly over high heat for just 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

• Turn off the heat and plate the dish right away.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
• Serve hot with crusty bread, Spanish wine, or as part of a tapas spread.

Tip: Do not overcook the octopus. It only needs 2–3 minutes at high heat, otherwise it can become rubbery.

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Tips for the Best Pulpo with Potatoes and Paprika

1. Use Frozen Octopus with Care - If using frozen octopus, thaw it completely before cooking to preserve texture.
2. High Heat Cooking - The key to tender octopus is quick cooking at high heat.
3. Choose Good Paprika - Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón de la Vera) makes a huge difference.
4. Don’t Skip Olive Oil - It gives richness and helps the paprika bloom.
5. Pair with Wine - Pulpo is often enjoyed with Albariño (a Spanish white wine) or Rioja red.

Why This Spanish Pulpo Recipe Works

This dish works because it combines a few humble ingredients into something greater than the sum of its parts. Potatoes give comfort, olives add briny depth, paprika provides smoky warmth, and the octopus ties it all together with tender, meaty bites.

Unlike complicated seafood dishes, Pulpo is incredibly simple yet elegant enough to impress guests. You can serve it as a starter, tapas, or even a light main course.

Variations of Spanish Pulpo

• Pulpo a la Gallega Style - Traditionally served over sliced boiled potatoes with olive oil and paprika.
• Grilled Pulpo - Instead of pan-frying, char the octopus on the grill for smoky flavor.
• Pulpo with Garlic Butter - Swap paprika for garlic butter for a richer twist.
• Vegetarian Option - Replace octopus with mushrooms or artichokes for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

Pulpo pairs beautifully with a variety of Spanish-inspired dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• As Tapas - Serve alongside patatas bravas, Spanish tortilla, or jamón ibérico.
• With Rice - A small portion of saffron rice complements the smoky octopus perfectly.
• With Bread - Crusty bread to soak up the paprika and olive oil sauce.
• With Wine - A crisp Spanish white wine or a refreshing sangria elevates the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Pulpo

• Refrigerate - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat - Quickly reheat in a hot pan for 1–2 minutes. Do not microwave, as it may make the octopus tough.
• Freezing - Not recommended once cooked, as texture can deteriorate.

Nutritional Benefits of Pulpo

Pulpo is not only delicious but also healthy.

• High Protein - Octopus provides lean protein for muscle health.
• Low Fat - Compared to other meats, octopus is low in fat and calories.
• Rich in Minerals - Contains iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12.
• Potatoes for Energy - Provide fiber and slow-release carbohydrates.
• Olive Oil for Heart Health - Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats.

Why You Should Try Pulpo at Home

Cooking octopus at home may sound intimidating, but this recipe proves how simple it can be. With only a few steps and minimal cooking time, you can prepare a restaurant-quality Spanish Pulpo dish without stress.

Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing tapas for a party, or simply craving Spanish flavors, this Pulpo recipe delivers big results with little effort.

Final Thoughts on Spanish Pulpo Recipe

Pulpo is one of those dishes that combines elegance with simplicity. Potatoes, olives, paprika, and octopus come together in harmony, creating a dish that feels both rustic and refined. In less than 10 minutes, you can transport your taste buds to Spain and experience the flavors of the Mediterranean.

So next time you want to impress guests or enjoy a quick yet sophisticated meal, try making this authentic Spanish Pulpo recipe at home.

Buen provecho! Enjoy your meal.