Looking for a quick, protein-packed, and deliciously healthy meal? This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a one-pan wonder loaded with lean ground beef, colorful vegetables, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs. Tossed in a savory Mediterranean-inspired sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a hearty lunch.
Gluten-free, low-carb, and full of wholesome goodness, this dish can be served over rice, quinoa, couscous, or even in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 400 g (14 oz) ground beef (lean or 80/20)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (~70 g)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (~9 g)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (~150 g)
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (~200 g)
- 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (30 g)
- 100 ml beef broth
- 50 g Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Serving Ideas:
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Pita bread or lettuce wraps
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add red onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef and cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it up, until fully browned.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add Vegetables & Spices
- Stir in red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes; cook 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and black pepper; stir to coat everything evenly.
4. Make the Sauce
- Mix in tomato paste and pour in beef broth.
- Simmer 5 minutes to blend flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Finish & Serve
- Remove from heat and stir in Kalamata olives.
- Garnish with parsley and crumbled feta if desired.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, couscous, or in pita or lettuce wraps.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Stir Fry
- Use quality olives – Kalamata olives give an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Layer the spices – Cinnamon adds warmth and depth—don’t skip it!
- Vegetarian option – Swap beef for chickpeas or lentils.
- Spice it up – Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Brighten the dish – A squeeze of lemon juice before serving enhances freshness.
Creative Variations
- Mediterranean Breakfast Bowl – Top with a fried or poached egg.
- Eggplant Twist – Add diced eggplant for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Salad Wraps – Serve in romaine leaves with tahini dressing.
- Stuffed Pita Pockets – Fill pita bread with stir fry and a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm pita bread for scooping
- Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta
- Couscous or quinoa to soak up the sauce
- Tzatziki or yogurt sauce for a creamy side
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is colorful, flavorful, and comes together in just one pan—a perfect way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors any night of the week!
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