This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is bursting with flavors! It’s packed with juicy ground beef, colorful veggies, and tasty spices that come together quickly for a delicious meal.
Cooking this is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! I love tossing everything in one pan. You can even serve it over rice or with pita bread for a fun twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: It’s the star of the dish! I used lean ground beef for less fat but feel free to opt for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just adjust cooking times since leaner meats cook faster.
Olive Oil: A must for flavor! If you’re out of olive oil, you can use canola oil or even avocado oil. They both have high smoke points and great taste.
Vegetables: I like tons of color! Red bell pepper and zucchini pair nicely, but you can swap them for whatever veggies you have on hand, like spinach, eggplant, or even carrots for extra crunch!
Spices: Cumin and oregano really bring the Mediterranean vibe. If you want to shake things up, try adding some smoked paprika for depth or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat!
Feta Cheese: Totally optional, but it adds a creamy touch. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try crumbled tofu or skip it altogether!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef right is key to a delicious stir-fry. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear. This helps lock in flavors.
- Break the meat apart while it cooks, so it browns evenly. Use a wooden spoon or spatula for this.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a double batch, cook in two separate pans to ensure everything cooks properly.
- Once it’s browned, check for excess fat. Draining it can make your dish less greasy. Just spoon it out!
Using these techniques will ensure your ground beef has the best texture and flavor, making your stir-fry a hit!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off!
3. Add Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini into the meat mixture. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and have started to soften.
4. Combine Flavors:
It’s time to add the cherry tomatoes, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, and some salt and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften and mingle with the other flavors.
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat. Add in the fresh parsley and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the stir-fry. Give it a good stir, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry warm, garnished with crumbled feta cheese if you like. It’s fantastic on its own, or you can pair it with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread for a delightful meal!
Enjoy this quick, flavorful dish with family and friends! 😊
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Can I Substitute Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins like tempeh or lentils can work great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; leaner meats may cook faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, eggplant, or carrots. Just remember to adjust cooking times for vegetables that may take longer to soften.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
