Why Make This Recipe
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a delicious and quick meal. It combines juicy ground beef with fresh veggies and tasty herbs.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy meal without spending too much time cooking. Plus, it’s full of flavors that everyone will love!
How To Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or higher)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
- ½ tsp sumac for extra tang (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Top with crumbled feta cheese and optional pine nuts for extra crunch.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, along with a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
How To Serve Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Serve this tasty stir-fry hot. You can enjoy it on its own or with a side of rice or whole grain pita. Adding a simple salad on the side can make it a complete meal.
How To Store Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
To store leftovers, let the stir-fry cool down. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to eat.
Tips To Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
- Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, carrots, or eggplant for extra nutrients.
- You can use different types of meat, like ground turkey or chicken, for a lighter option.
- Adjust the seasoning to match your taste. Add more spices if you like it spicy!
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a healthful choice. Ground beef is a great source of protein, which helps build muscles. The veggies in the recipe, like zucchini and bell peppers, are full of vitamins. The olives and spices add healthy fats and flavor, making the dish both tasty and nutritious.
Variation
You can make this stir-fry vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with chickpeas or lentils. It will still be full of flavor and good for you!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
2. How do I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it extra heat.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for later. Just reheat before serving.