This Mediterranean ground beef stir fry packs a punch with tasty spices, colorful veggies, and a touch of olive oil. It’s quick to make and sure to please your taste buds!
I love how this dish brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to my kitchen. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up after a long day. Serve it over rice or with pita, and enjoy a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer lighter meat. Vegetarians can use textured vegetable protein (TVP) or mushrooms for a meatless alternative.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach brings great color and nutrients. If you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen chopped spinach works too; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes add flavor and juiciness. If they aren’t in season, use regular tomatoes, chopped into small pieces. Canned diced tomatoes also work well if fresh tomatoes are unavailable.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, goat cheese is a good alternative, or you can use shredded mozzarella for a milder taste.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a rich, deep flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use regular paprika and a touch of cumin to give the dish a different but tasty twist.
How to Ensure Your Beef Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky if you want it juicy. Start by heating your skillet to medium-high; this helps to sear the meat properly, locking in moisture.
- Add the beef without overcrowding the pan; if you have too much at once, it can steam instead of sear.
- Cook until it’s just browned. Overcooking can dry it out. Once you see no pink, it’s ready.
- Don’t forget to season: a little salt and pepper while cooking enhances its flavor!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 25 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together until the onion becomes translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a wonderful aroma to your dish!
2. Browning the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around and let it brown completely, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink spots left in the meat—this means it’s fully cooked.
3. Adding Fresh Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional 3-5 minutes. You’ll see the spinach wilt and the tomatoes soften a bit, making the mixture colorful and delicious.
4. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the stir fry, gently stirring it in to combine. The feta adds a nice tangy flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stir fry warm, garnishing with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. This dish is perfect on its own or served with rice or pita. Enjoy every bite of your Mediterranean creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, as cooking times may vary slightly with different meats.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize your stir fry with other veggies you enjoy or have on hand! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even some chopped eggplant would make great additions. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water to help regain some moisture!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ingredients (except the feta) a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge, then just sauté and add the feta when you’re ready to eat. This can save time on busy nights!
