This lively Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish! With juicy ground beef, colorful veggies, and a sprinkle of spices, it’s as exciting as a dance party in your mouth.
I love how simple this meal is to whip up—just fry everything in one pan! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy without the fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that doubles as a rainbow on a plate? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used. They have a lighter taste, so you may want to adjust the seasonings a bit.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a nice pop of color and nutrition. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes. Just be aware that they might take a bit longer to soften.
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide sweetness and juiciness. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even canned tomatoes in a pinch.
Bell Pepper: You can use any color of bell pepper, but red or yellow will add a lovely sweetness. If you dislike bell peppers or they aren’t available, zucchini or carrots can be a good swap.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy finish to the dish. If you want a non-dairy alternative, try using vegan feta or omit it altogether.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the ground beef just right is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and let the oil heat up before adding your ingredients.
- Add the ground beef in small chunks to avoid steaming it. Break it apart gently with a spatula.
- Season with salt and pepper early on to enhance the flavor. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Don’t rush this step! Proper cooking not only improves taste but also ensures it’s safe to eat.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stir fry takes about 10-15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This will help everything cook evenly and prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your stir fry.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep cooking until it’s all browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left!
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. You want the veggies nicely softened and the spinach wilted.
5. Finish with Feta:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your stir fry. The feta will add a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped green onions on top for a nice crunch and flavor boost. Enjoy the stir fry hot, either as is or over cooked rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese, or for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just sprinkle it over before serving!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat for an even better texture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Definitely! You can easily add or substitute with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked but still vibrant and crisp.
