This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal. With ground beef, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, it’s both healthy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is a great choice here for a healthier dish. If you’re looking to substitute it, ground turkey or chicken can work, but may need added seasoning to keep the flavor strong.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice touch. If you don’t have it, you can use kale or even frozen spinach (just make sure it’s well-drained).
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness. If they’re out of season, regular diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can also do the trick. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Feta Cheese: I love the tang of feta. For a dairy-free option, you could try crumbled tofu or omit it altogether. Just add a splash of lemon juice for brightness!
How Do I Get Perfectly Sautéed Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial as they form the flavor base for this stir-fry. Follow these steps for success:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning. If it’s too high, the garlic might burn before the onion softens.
- Once the onion is translucent, stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it; garlic cooks quickly!
This way, you’ll get that sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the whole dish!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean stir fry will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion looks translucent and smells tasty.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of excess fat, feel free to drain it before moving on to the next step.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook this for another 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften a bit. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook everything for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are nice and tender.
4. Season and Serve:
Season your stir fry with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. After removing it from the heat, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top to add a creamy texture. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy this tasty Mediterranean-inspired dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be aware that these meats may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. The flavor will still be delicious with the herbs and vegetables!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or even using more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Just be sure to add some extra seasoning to keep the flavors rich!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of water while reheating to keep the dish moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or even carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly so everything gets cooked properly. Enjoy getting creative!
