This tasty Mediterranean stir fry is packed with ground beef and colorful veggies, making it a delicious and healthy meal. It cooks quickly, perfect for busy weeknights!
Plus, the flavors remind me of sunny vacations by the sea! I love tossing this with some warm pita bread for extra fun. It’s quick, easy, and utterly satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives this dish its heartiness. You can use lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Plant-based ground beef is also a great substitute for a vegetarian meal.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If spinach isn’t available, try using kale or Swiss chard. Both will still give you that nice leafy texture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes work well too, but be sure to drain off some excess juice to keep the stir fry from being too watery.
Red Bell Pepper: This pepper provides a nice crunch and sweetness. Feel free to swap it with other colorful bell peppers or even zucchini for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives that lovely tangy flavor. You could replace it with goat cheese or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef well can make or break your stir fry. The key is to break it apart as it cooks to prevent clumps and ensure even browning. Here’s how:
- Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat before adding the minced garlic for a fragrant base.
- Add the ground beef and season it right away with salt, pepper, and oregano. This helps to build flavor.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until browned with no pink bits left.
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple and tasty Mediterranean stir fry takes around 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend just a few minutes chopping veggies and stirring everything in a skillet. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it releases a lovely aroma, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the pound of ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and the teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook the beef while breaking it apart with a spoon. Keep cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, and make sure to stir occasionally.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add color! Toss in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted down nicely into the mix.
5. Finish with Cheese and Green Onions:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped green onions over the top of your stir fry. The heat from the dish will slightly melt the feta, adding creaminess to every bite!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Mediterranean ground beef stir fry hot. If you like, you can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Dig in and enjoy your vibrant meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit more olive oil (about a teaspoon) to prevent it from being too dry while cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to evenly warm.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are tender but not overcooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare this dish in advance! Cook the stir fry according to the instructions, then cool it completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It can be reheated easily the next day for a quick meal.
