Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Craving something savory, satisfying, and full of flavor? This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is your new go-to recipe. With its vibrant combination of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Mediterranean bistro. The ground beef soaks up all the delicious flavors while staying juicy and tender. And the best part? It comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual weekend dinner. Let’s dive into this savory Mediterranean masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

This stir fry isn’t just a quick meal; it’s an explosion of fresh, vibrant flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Whether you’re serving it over rice, couscous, or in a pita, this stir fry can be paired with almost anything. It’s a great way to use up whatever vegetables you have in your fridge!

Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is a wallet-friendly protein, and with just a few extra pantry staples, you’ve got a meal that feels special without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: From the chopping board to the dinner table in about 30 minutes! No complicated steps, just simple ingredients and bold flavors.

Customizable: Not a fan of one of the veggies? No problem! Feel free to swap or add in any veggies you prefer, like spinach, zucchini, or even olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hearty and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for family meals or casual gatherings. It’s a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids.

Ingredients in Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Here’s what makes this stir fry both simple and packed with flavor:

Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. It cooks up tender and absorbs all the spices and herbs, making every bite delicious.

Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet, juicy crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and spices.

Zucchini: A mild and slightly sweet veggie that complements the more robust flavors of the beef and seasonings.

Onion: A sweet, caramelized bite that adds depth to the stir fry.

Garlic: The perfect aromatic to elevate the dish, adding a savory kick.

Dried Oregano: A Mediterranean classic, bringing that earthy, aromatic flavor we love in Mediterranean cooking.

Ground Cumin: Gives the stir fry a warm, slightly smoky note, enhancing the richness of the beef.

Paprika: For a little heat and color, adding a mild smokiness to the dish.

Olive Oil: To sauté everything to perfection and add that Mediterranean richness.

Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings brightness and balances out the richness of the beef.

Fresh Parsley: A fresh, herby garnish that brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how you’ll bring all these amazing flavors together:

Prep Your Ingredients:
Chop the bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and quick.

Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, ground cumin, paprika, and dried oregano, mixing everything together.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil if needed. Toss in the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.

Combine and Add Lemon:
Once the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, stir them into the cooked ground beef. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish and give everything a good toss.

Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, whether it’s over rice, couscous, or tucked into a pita—your choice!

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
(Note: Calories are approximate based on standard ingredient measurements.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

This dish is perfect served over warm rice, quinoa, or couscous. You can also serve it in pita bread as a Mediterranean-inspired wrap or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Add feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
• Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or chili powder while cooking the beef.
• Leftovers: This stir fry makes amazing leftovers! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile.
2. What can I use instead of zucchini?
   You can swap zucchini for eggplant or yellow squash, or even skip it and add more bell peppers.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep and cook the dish ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Yes! As long as you serve it on its own or with gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa, it’s naturally gluten-free.
5. Can I freeze Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
6. What if I don’t like lemon?
   If lemon isn’t your thing, you can skip it or substitute with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a different acidic kick.
7. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño during the cooking process to add some heat.
8. What can I serve with this stir fry?
   It pairs perfectly with a side salad, pita bread, or even roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
9. Can I add more veggies?
   Absolutely! Feel free to toss in spinach, olives, or even some roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
10. How long does this dish take to cook?
    This stir fry comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, weeknight dinner.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that’s full of vibrant colors and delicious Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this stir fry will surely become a favorite. With its balance of savory beef, crisp vegetables, and a touch of lemony freshness, it’s an easy meal that’s big on flavor! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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