This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a vibrant fusion of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Packed with colorful bell peppers, tender beef, smoky spices, and topped with creamy feta, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The addition of tangy Kalamata olives and fresh parsley adds a delightful contrast, making every bite irresistible. What’s even better? This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Serve it as-is or pair it with a side of fluffy couscous or warm pita bread for a complete meal that transports you straight to the sunny Mediterranean.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Season with salt and black pepper.
- Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Return the ground beef to the skillet and mix well with the vegetables.
- Add the sliced Kalamata olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the stir fry.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a tangy finish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry: A Flavor-Packed, Wholesome Meal
The Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a colorful and vibrant dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. With its rich combination of lean ground beef, fresh bell peppers, and savory spices, this recipe delivers bold flavors and balanced nutrition, making it a family-friendly favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty lunch, this dish is a surefire winner.
The Inspiration Behind Mediterranean Cuisine
The Mediterranean region is celebrated for its simple yet incredibly flavorful cuisine. Meals from this area emphasize the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients like vegetables, olive oil, lean proteins, and aromatic herbs and spices. This recipe is a reflection of that culinary philosophy, delivering a harmonious blend of bold flavors and nourishing ingredients that evoke the sunny shores of Greece and Italy.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer chicken or turkey instead of beef? No problem.
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: From the smoky paprika to the tangy Kalamata olives and creamy feta, every bite bursts with flavor.
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and healthy fats, this stir fry is both satisfying and nourishing.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
- Ground Beef: A rich source of high-quality protein, ground beef also provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Opting for lean ground beef keeps the dish heart-healthy.
- Bell Peppers: These vibrant veggies are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, promoting a healthy immune system and supporting digestion.
- Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is packed with healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also adds a fragrant, savory depth to the dish.
- Kalamata Olives: These tangy gems are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, contributing to heart health and a delightful burst of flavor.
- Feta Cheese: A source of calcium and protein, feta adds a creamy, tangy finish without overwhelming the dish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest bell peppers, onions, and herbs for the best flavor and texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spices. The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes creates a smoky, aromatic base that elevates the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the bell peppers slightly crisp to maintain their vibrant color and texture.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile stir fry can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a Standalone Dish: Enjoy it straight from the skillet for a hearty, low-carb meal.
- Over Grains: Serve over fluffy couscous, quinoa, or brown rice for a more filling option.
- With Bread: Pair with warm pita bread or crusty artisan bread to soak up every delicious bite.
- As a Wrap: Use the stir fry as a filling for lettuce wraps or flatbread for a fun, handheld meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: This stir fry can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked ground beef mixture (without the feta garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Dietary Modifications
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: The recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used, making this dish ideal for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based protein or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry isn’t just a one-time wonder—it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Its vibrant flavors, quick preparation, and nutritional benefits make it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Plus, the sheer versatility of the dish means you can get creative and adapt it to suit your preferences.
