This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is packed with flavor! You’ll love the mix of tender beef, colorful veggies, and yummy spices that come together quickly in one pan.
It’s a great meal for busy nights when you want something tasty without much fuss. I like to serve it over rice or with warm pita bread, making every bite a little mini adventure! 🌍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is a favorite for this dish, but you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I like using beef for its richer flavor, but don’t hesitate to experiment!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice texture and color. If you don’t have any, kale or arugula also works well. Just chop them up and add the same way for a twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes diced will do, but you’ll miss some natural sweetness. Using canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch, too.
Feta Cheese: This is what brings the Mediterranean taste! If you’re looking for a diary-free option, try coconut feta or omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil adds great flavor, but you can use avocado oil as a substitute. It has a high smoke point and a mild taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Vegetables Stay Tender but Not Mushy?
Cooking vegetables just right is key to making this dish enjoyable. Follow these tips to keep them tender but with a nice bite:
- Sauté onions and garlic first to build flavor. Make sure they’re just translucent, not browned.
- Add the bell peppers and tomatoes next. They need a little longer to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Finally, stir in the spinach. It wilts quickly, so only cook for 1-2 minutes until just tender.
- Keep an eye on the heat! Medium-high is great, but avoiding overcooking ensures all veggies keep their crunch.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean ground beef stir fry will take about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick meal that’s packed with flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by taking a large skillet and heating the olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be warm but not smoking. This will help bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion turns translucent. This step adds a lovely aroma!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, turn up the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat if necessary to keep it healthy.
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Time to add some color! Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional 5-6 minutes, until the veggies are tender and the spinach has wilted.
5. Sprinkle with Feta:
Once the veggies are cooked to your liking, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. The cheese will melt slightly and create a creamy texture.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the stir fry for a fresh kick. You can serve it hot on its own, or pair it with rice or warm pita bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your hearty and tasty dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just cook it in the same manner, but keep in mind it may need a few extra minutes to fully brown, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until it’s hot. You may want to add a splash of water if it seems dry when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking!
What’s a Good Serving Suggestion?
This stir fry is delicious served over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can serve it in pita pockets with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki for extra flavor!
