This Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is full of tasty veggies and spices. It cooks quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights!
I love how colorful this dish is! Plus, it’s a perfect way to sneak in some extra veggies. Toss it over rice or in a wrap for a fun meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option. You could swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter meat, or even a plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect in this recipe, but you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it well before adding.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor that I love, but if you can’t find it, crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta can work. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring sweetness, but you can use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Cooked Evenly?
Cooking the ground beef properly makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Start by breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Here are some tips:
- Use a good-quality skillet that retains heat well.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches.
- Let it brown for a couple of minutes before stirring to get a nice crust.
These steps help create a rich flavor and a satisfying texture in your stir fry.
Delicious 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 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Mediterranean stir fry will take you about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, so you’re looking at a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent—this will create a lovely base for your stir fry!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if needed!
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the diced bell pepper and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until it softens up a bit. The colors will start to brighten, and you’ll love the aroma!
4. Mix in Tomatoes and Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Also sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are slightly softened—yum!
5. Top with Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. This will add a nice creamy contrast to your dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Mediterranean ground beef stir fry right away! Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. Enjoy your meal and the delightful flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that they may have a milder flavor than beef, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning or herbs to enhance the taste. Cooking times might be similar, but ensure the meat is cooked through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just ensure that the veggies are chopped into small pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. Adjust the cooking times slightly for firmer vegetables to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can also add a splash of olive oil or water to help revive the dish if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Stir Fry Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or tofu. For added flavor, season the tofu with the same spices and allow it to absorb the flavors before mixing in the veggies. Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free option for a fully vegan dish!
