This colorful Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is a quick and tasty meal! It features tender beef mixed with vibrant veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes, all spiced with herbs.
I love how this dish comes together in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, it’s great served over rice or with pita bread—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, giving it rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead. They work well and reduce the fat content.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, Swiss chard or kale can be great substitutes as they wilt nicely into the stir fry.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness shines in this recipe. If you can’t find them, feel free to use regular tomatoes, chopped up, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
Red Bell Pepper: This contributes sweetness and crunch. You can swap with green bell pepper or any other color. For a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños!
Feta Cheese: It adds a creamy, tangy finish. If you’re not a feta fan, crumbled goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella can substitute well.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor while Cooking Ground Beef?
Cooking the ground beef properly is key to a tasty stir fry. You want to ensure it’s nicely browned and full of flavor. Here are some tips:
- Start with a hot skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Break the beef apart with a wooden spoon, allowing it to brown rather than steam. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
- Season the meat with spices (like oregano and cumin) while it’s cooking for maximum flavor infusion.
- Don’t rush this step; the more caramelized the beef, the richer the overall taste of your dish!
How to Make Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have a tasty meal that’s healthy and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Browning the Beef:
Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks. Keep stirring until it is browned and cooked through, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Make sure the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink.
3. Adding Seasonings:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the oregano, cumin, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the spices coat the beef evenly and add extra flavor!
4. Mixing in Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add some color! Toss in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them together with the beef for about 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
5. Incorporating Spinach:
Finally, fold in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted and turned bright green. This adds a nutritious element to the dish!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the stir fry. The creamy feta pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish!
7. Serving:
Garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a little extra crunch and color. Serve warm, either on its own or alongside a side of rice or pita if you like. Enjoy your tasty Mediterranean creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it might need a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding a pinch of additional salt and spices if needed.
How Can I Make This Dish Veggie-Only?
If you’d like to go vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a hearty option like crumbled tempeh or lentils. You can cook the lentils separately and stir them in at the end for added texture and protein!
Can I Store Leftover Stir Fry?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. It’s great to have for an easy lunch or quick dinner!
What Else Can I Add to This Stir Fry?
Feel free to customize your stir fry! You can add ingredients like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for more veggies. Just sauté them alongside the onions to get them cooked properly. Enjoy experimenting!
