Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry (Printable Version)
# What You Need:
→ Meats
01 -
1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 85% lean or higher
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 small onion, finely chopped
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
06 -
1 small zucchini, diced
07 -
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
08 -
¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
09 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 -
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
11 -
½ tsp black pepper
12 -
1 tsp ground cumin
13 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
14 -
½ tsp dried oregano
15 -
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
→ Finishing Touches
16 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Toppings & Optional Add-Ins
17 -
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
18 -
¼ cup toasted pine nuts
19 -
½ tsp sumac (optional, for extra tang)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
02 -
Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
03 -
Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Add cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives; stir to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes.
04 -
Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Top with crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and sumac if desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
For best flavor, use 85% lean ground beef to balance richness and prevent greasiness.
02 -
Let the beef brown undisturbed for a few minutes to develop caramelized flavor.
03 -
Serve over rice, quinoa, or alongside pita bread if desired.
04 -
Substitute ground turkey or lamb for beef for a different twist.
05 -
Make it dairy-free by omitting feta cheese.