This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is packed with flavor! Juicy ground beef meets colorful veggies, all tossed together with tasty spices. It’s a dinner that comes together in no time!
You’ll love how fast it is to make—perfect for those busy nights when you just want to eat and relax. I often serve it over rice or with warm pita bread. Simple and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish, adding richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, or even use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: It’s great for cooking and adds flavor. For a different taste, try avocado oil or a bit of grapeseed oil. If you’re watching your calories, using a cooking spray could work as well.
Veggies: The red bell pepper and zucchini are key for color and texture. Feel free to swap in other vegetables like spinach, eggplant, or even broccoli based on what you have on hand!
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano give that Mediterranean flair. If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap oregano for Italian seasoning if that’s what you have.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro brightens up the dish. If you don’t have these on hand, you can use dried herbs instead, but fresh gives the best flavor. Basil or mint could add a fun twist too!
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the ground beef properly is crucial for a tasty stir fry. The key is to cook it until it’s browned but not overcooked, which can lead to a tough texture. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the oil—this helps the beef to brown nicely.
- Break the beef into small pieces with a spatula while it cooks. This will cook it evenly and help it develop more flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking; allow the beef to brown for about 6-8 minutes. If it releases a lot of fat, you can drain some off to keep the stir-fry from getting greasy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have juicy, well-cooked beef every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for Mediterranean warmth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, or toasted pine nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick dinner option. In total, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 30-35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add the onions!
2. Cook the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This step adds a lovely base flavor.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with a delicious aroma!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, toss in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart, and cook until it’s browned all over, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s too much fat, carefully drain the excess from the pan.
5. Add Veggies:
Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to your skillet. Stir the mixture for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still vibrant.
6. Season and Combine:
Now it’s time for the flavors! Add the halved cherry tomatoes, ground cumin, dried oregano, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want the tomatoes to break down a bit and release their juices.
7. Finish with Freshness:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley or cilantro along with the lemon juice. This step brings a wonderful brightness to your dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot and feel free to top your stir fry with crumbled feta, sliced olives, or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy it over rice, couscous, or with warm pita bread for a complete meal!
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken if you want a lower-fat option. Just keep an eye on cooking times as these meats might cook a little faster than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular diced tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes. Just add them in the same step and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. If the mixture seems dry when reheating, add a splash of water or broth!
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or even cooked lentils. Adjust seasonings as needed to maintain flavor!
