This Easy Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry bursts with flavor! Tender beef strips are cooked with fresh veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, all tossed in a zesty Mediterranean sauce.
It’s a quick dish perfect for busy evenings—just stir, sizzle, and serve. I love sneaking some extra olives on top! It really adds a fun twist to each bite! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I love using sirloin or flank steak for stir fry for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken breast or tofu for a great vegetarian twist.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a nice flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or any other neutral oil if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and zucchini are my favorites, but feel free to mix in other veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas based on what you have on hand.
Kalamata olives: These bring out the Mediterranean taste. If you’re not a fan, green olives or capers can work as replacements!
Feta cheese: This adds creaminess and savory flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based feta or skip it altogether!
How Do You Cook Beef So It Stays Tender?
Cooking beef just right is key to tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with thin slices against the grain. This really helps break down muscle fibers.
- Make sure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the beef. A medium-high heat will give you that great sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, so the beef can brown nicely.
- Stir-fry for just a few minutes until it’s browned. Overcooking will make it tough!
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly tender beef every time in your stir fry! Enjoy because it really makes a difference!
Easy Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef: 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Flavor Boost:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Texture and Taste:
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Feta cheese crumbles for topping
Time Needed:
This Easy Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef strips. Season them with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through. When done, carefully remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and the thinly sliced red onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onions start to soften.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the zucchini to the skillet. Stir-fry these delicious veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. We want them to stay vibrant and full of flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the veggies. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme, then add the halved Kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes. Stir everything well to make sure those wonderful flavors combine!
5. Finish It Off:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the stir fry and give it a taste. Add more salt and pepper if you need it. Let the stir fry cook for another 2 minutes to meld all those delicious flavors together.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. If you like, add some crumbled feta cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavor. Serve it hot on its own, or over rice, couscous, or warm pita bread. Enjoy your Easy Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the bell peppers and zucchini with any of your favorite veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or even carrots. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep them tender-crisp!
What Can I Substitute for Kalamata Olives?
If you don’t have Kalamata olives on hand, green olives or even capers can work great as a substitute. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it looks dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the veggies and slice the beef in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. However, I recommend cooking it fresh for the best texture and flavor. If needed, you can stir-fry everything and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, reheating as mentioned above.