This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is quick, colorful, and packed with flavor! You’ll enjoy ground beef mixed with vibrant veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, all brought together with tasty spices.
It’s fun to make a meal that feels gourmet but is super simple! I love serving it over rice or with warm pita. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delicious dish! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish, but lean ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. They cook up similarly and absorb the flavors well.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is a fantastic leafy green that wilts down nicely. If spinach isn’t available, you can use kale or Swiss chard—just chop them smaller and cook a bit longer.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and acidity. If they’re not in season, you could opt for canned diced tomatoes or even other types of fresh tomatoes, chopped up. It’s all about what you have on hand!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a lovely tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with a little lemon juice for flavor, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even butter for a different flavor. Just keep an eye on the heat, as butter can burn more easily.
How Do You Get the Onions to Sauté Just Right?
Sautéing onions is a key step for building flavor in your stir fry. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use medium heat so the onions can soften without browning too quickly.
- Add a pinch of salt to the onions as they cook. This helps draw out moisture and speeds up the cooking process.
- Cook until they’re translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Timing is important! Proper sautéing will give your dish a deeper flavor, so resist the urge to rush this step.
How to Make 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 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short time, you’ll have a delicious, healthy stir fry that’s perfect for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help cook everything evenly and give it a nice flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks so it browns evenly.
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften up.
5. Mix in the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook it until it wilts down, which will take about 2 minutes. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrients to your dish!
6. Finishing Touches
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions over the top for a tasty finishing touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Mediterranean stir fry warm as a main dish, or over your favorite cooked grains like quinoa or rice if you like. Enjoy this delicious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that these meats may cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Feel free to incorporate more veggies! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli would complement this dish nicely. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces as the bell pepper to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Stir Fry Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this stir fry ahead of time! Cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed thoroughly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil while warming.
