This quick Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is packed with flavor! It combines tender beef with colorful veggies, fragrant spices, and zesty herbs for a tasty meal that makes your taste buds dance.
I love how easy it is to whip up—just a few simple steps and you have a delicious dish. Serve it over rice or in a warm pita, and enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. Use lean ground beef for a healthier choice, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also try ground lamb for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. If it’s not available, kale or Swiss chard work just as well. Even frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand.
Cherry Tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet and juicy. If you prefer, you could use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste. Just adjust the quantity depending on the tomato type.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tangy taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or a vegan feta made from nuts. Alternatively, goat cheese can also provide a great flavor hit.
Spices: Dried oregano and smoked paprika are key here. If you prefer fresh herbs, use fresh oregano or basil instead. For some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
How Do I Properly Sauté Vegetables Without Overcooking Them?
Sautéing veggies can be tricky; you want them tender but still crisp. Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet before adding oil. This ensures an even cook.
- Add garlic first to release its aroma, but don’t let it burn—30 seconds is usually perfect.
- When adding vegetables, start with those that take longer to cook. In this recipe, add red bell peppers first since they need a few minutes before softer veggies.
- Keep stirring gently while cooking. This helps everything cook evenly and keeps them from burning.
- Once you add spinach, it wilts quickly (about 2 minutes), so watch closely to maintain that freshness.
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and tasty dish perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. You’ll love how fast it comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
2. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it cook until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
3. Adding Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked through, toss in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften just a bit.
4. Incorporating Spinach:
Now it’s time to fold in the fresh spinach! Continue cooking everything in the skillet until the spinach has wilted, which should take about 2 minutes.
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and add the chopped green onions and crumbled feta cheese on top. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Mediterranean-inspired stir fry is now ready to enjoy! You can serve it by itself or over a bed of rice or couscous for a heartier meal. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well in this recipe. Just be aware the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. You might also want to add a touch more seasoning since turkey or chicken can be milder in flavor than beef.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add more veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just make sure to chop them into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. You may need to increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure everything is tender and well-cooked.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This stir fry reheats beautifully in the microwave; just add a splash of water to keep it moist while warming. If you’d like to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Sauté the tofu until golden before adding the veggies, and enhance the flavors with additional herbs and spices as needed. Enjoy!
