This Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is a tasty mix of flavors! With fresh veggies and spices, it’s quick to make and full of yummy goodness.
You’ll love how colorful and vibrant this dish is on your plate. Plus, it’s a simple way to sneak in some healthy greens! I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of feta on top; it’s the cherry on the sundae! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter meat choice or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice texture, but you can use kale or Swiss chard if that’s what you have. Just be mindful that these greens may take a bit longer to wilt down.
Cherry Tomatoes: While cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, you could use any tomatoes you have on hand. Just chop them into smaller pieces to cook evenly.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely tang, but goat cheese or even ricotta can work well as alternatives. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan feta options.
Spices: Dried oregano and paprika bring out Mediterranean flavors, but feel free to mix it up! Thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning all can give a fun twist.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the beef cooked just right is key to making this stir fry tasty. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating the olive oil, then add garlic for flavor.
- When adding ground beef, use medium heat. Press it with a spatula to break it apart, which helps it cook evenly.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, usually 5-7 minutes. If fat builds up, draining it helps keep your dish light.
- At the end, check the beef with a thermometer; it should reach 160°F for safety.
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 green onion, sliced (plus additional for garnish)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oil:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean stir fry takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a tasty and healthy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Stir and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spatula, break it apart and cook until it turns brown and is fully cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it from the pan.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add some color! Stir in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften a bit.
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Once the vegetables are ready, add the chopped spinach. Stir everything together, and cook just until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. It’ll shrink down a lot!
5. Season the Dish:
Now, add the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors combine perfectly. This is where the stir fry gets its Mediterranean flair!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions over the stir fry for a lovely garnish. You can serve it hot on its own or with warm pita bread or over rice, if you like. Enjoy your tasty Mediterranean delight!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, as they may require a slightly different cooking time than beef. They will also have a milder flavor but should still pair wonderfully with the Mediterranean ingredients.
How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant! Just chop them into similar sizes as the bell pepper and add them to the skillet when you add the tomatoes to ensure they cook evenly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Add a splash of water or olive oil if it seems too dry after reheating.
