This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty mix of ground beef, colorful veggies, and delicious spices. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
To be honest, it’s great for when I’m feeling lazy but still want something yummy. Just toss everything in the pan, and you’re done! Plus, it smells amazing while cooking!
I love to serve it over rice or with warm pita bread. It makes for a fun meal that feels a bit like a mini-vacation on my plate! Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or try swapping it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter protein. Some prefer using lamb for its rich flavor!
Onion: Sweet onions can be a great substitute if you want a milder flavor. Red onions work too, adding a pretty pop of color.
Bell Peppers: The red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. You can use green peppers if that’s what you have, but they’re a bit more bitter. Other veggies like carrots or broccoli would also be fantastic!
Zucchini: If zucchini isn’t in season, feel free to replace it with broccoli or snap peas for a crunchy addition.
Spices: Oregano and cumin are key, but don’t hesitate to add other herbs like thyme or basil according to your taste. A dash of cinnamon can give it a warm twist!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Vegetables?
Cooking your vegetables just right ensures they’re tender but still crisp. Here’s how:
- Start by cooking the onions and garlic to build flavor before you add other veggies.
- When it’s time for your bell peppers and zucchini, cook them on medium-high heat. This helps them soften without losing that crunch.
- Stir frequently but avoid overcooking! Just 5 minutes should do it.
This method keeps your veggies bright and tasty while perfectly blending with the ground beef!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick 25-minute meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the onions, as this will help them cook properly.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, making sure it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the stir fry from getting greasy.
4. Season the Beef:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so that the beef is coated in all those delicious spices.
5. Add Vegetables:
Toss in the diced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir-fry them with the beef for about 5 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. You want them to maintain a bit of their crunch!
6. Finish with Tomatoes:
Finally, add the halved cherry tomatoes and stir for another 2 minutes until they’re heated through. Remove the skillet from heat.
7. Add Fresh Touches:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the stir fry and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Mix everything well to combine those refreshing flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean ground beef stir fry hot, and feel free to top it with crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that they may require slightly less cooking time, so watch them closely!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize this stir fry by adding other veggies you enjoy, such as spinach, broccoli, or carrots. Just keep in mind the cooking times for different vegetables to ensure everything remains perfectly cooked!
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference!
