Introduction
Searching for a weeknight dinner that’s fast, delicious, and nutritious? The Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry delivers all that and more. This one-pan wonder is loaded with lean protein, colorful veggies, and classic Mediterranean herbs and spices that make every bite sing. With 75% of Americans looking to eat more Mediterranean-style meals, this recipe is a flavorful solution to healthy eating—without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, halved and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
- Feta cheese crumbles (for topping)
- Cooked quinoa, rice, or orzo for serving
- Spinach or arugula for added greens
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
That’s faster than takeout and packed with better-for-you ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add remaining olive oil, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until veggies begin to soften.
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Stir in garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
Squeeze lemon juice over the stir fry, toss everything together, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional feta.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
Based on 4 servings. Data sourced from USDA Nutrient Database.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or lentils for a lighter version
- Use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb
- Add artichoke hearts or roasted eggplant for more veggies
- Skip the feta or use a dairy-free option for a vegan-friendly meal
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over couscous, brown rice, or a warm grain bowl
- Wrap in a whole-wheat pita for a Mediterranean taco
- Spoon over hummus or tzatziki for a mezze-style plate
- Enjoy as-is for a low-carb dinner
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming
- Skipping the herbs and lemon: These add brightness and Mediterranean flair
- Using low-fat beef without seasoning: Lean meat needs bold flavor support
- Overcooking the veggies: Keep a slight crunch for better texture
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Freeze: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Microwave or stir-fry over medium heat until warm
Conclusion
Quick, colorful, and full of flavor, this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s a simple way to enjoy bold, wholesome ingredients in under 30 minutes.
Try it tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Subscribe for more global-inspired, healthy meals.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Try ground lamb, turkey, chicken, or tofu.
Q2: What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
Diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes also work well.
Q3: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—as long as you serve it without gluten-containing grains or bread.
Q4: Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely. It keeps well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.
Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne with the spices.
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