Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry: Flavorful & Hearty
Description
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a quick, protein-packed, and flavor-rich dish perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy ground beef, colorful bell peppers, onions, garlic, and Mediterranean spices, it delivers a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Serve it over rice, quinoa, couscous, or with warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean feast!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground lamb for richer flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (diced, any color)
- 1 zucchini (diced, optional for extra veggies)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (for warmth, optional)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup chicken or beef broth (for moisture and richness)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (for topping, optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Vegetables & Spices
- Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
4. Simmer & Finish
- Pour in broth, stir well, and simmer for 3-5 minutes until flavors meld.
- Squeeze in lemon juice, stir, and remove from heat.
5. Serve & Garnish
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, couscous, or with warm pita bread.
Notes & Tips
- For a Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or harissa.
- For Extra Protein: Stir in chickpeas or lentils.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
Servings & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~500mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
✔ High-Protein Meal – Keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
✔ Rich in Healthy Fats – Olive oil and feta provide heart-healthy fats.
✔ Nutrient-Dense Veggies – Bell peppers, tomatoes, and zucchini offer vitamins and fiber.
✔ Anti-Inflammatory Spices – Cumin, paprika, and oregano aid digestion.
✔ Balanced Macros – A well-rounded meal with carbs, protein, and fats.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground beef for lentils, crumbled tofu, or chickpeas.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes it leaner but still flavorful.
Q: What side dishes go well with this stir-fry?
Try hummus, tzatziki, Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or warm pita bread.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze this stir-fry?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a delicious, quick, and wholesome meal loaded with flavor. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home! 🍽✨