This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty mix of juicy beef and fresh veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, all served with a sprinkle of herbs for a burst of flavor. Yum!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just toss everything in a pan, and you’ve got a bright, colorful dish ready to enjoy in no time. Perfect for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, try ground turkey or chicken instead. They have a milder flavor but still absorb the spices well.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is great for adding nutrition and color. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens up the dish! If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: It adds crunch and sweetness. Feel free to swap it for yellow or orange bell peppers, or even zucchini for a different texture and taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the dish a salty kick. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella can be used as alternatives, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauté for My Vegetables?
The sautéing process is crucial for building flavor. Start with your pan at medium heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Warm the olive oil in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic. You want the oil to shimmer, not smoke.
- Sauté the onions until they turn translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures they release their sweetness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re making a larger batch, consider doing it in batches for even cooking.
Following these tips will help give your veggies that nice, tender texture without becoming mushy. Enjoy the delightful crunch of your stir fry!
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is quick and easy! You will need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm for a minute or so; this will help bring out the flavors of your ingredients.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step will create a lovely base for your stir fry!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and no longer pink, roughly 5-7 minutes. This is where all the delicious flavors start to meld together.
4. Add Vegetables and Spices:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook everything for an additional 4-5 minutes. You want the bell pepper to be tender and the tomatoes to soften just a bit.
5. Incorporate the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and gently stir it in. You’ll notice it wilts quickly in about 2 minutes. This adds a pop of color and nutrition to your dish!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is cooked and combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your stir fry on plates or in bowls, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions for that finishing touch.
7. Enjoy!
Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors of your dish. Then dig in and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry! It’s healthy, quick, and bursting with flavor!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is fully cooked before serving.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, or a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also be great additions right before serving!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet, to prevent the dish from getting watery. You can add it towards the end, just like fresh spinach, until heated through.
