Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer plant-based meals, try lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Spinach: Baby spinach adds a mild flavor, but you could use kale or Swiss chard. If you’re avoiding greens, skip it entirely or use another veggie like zucchini or mushrooms.

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes give a burst of flavor. Regular tomatoes can be chopped if that’s what you have, or use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.

Red Bell Pepper: Their sweetness is fantastic, but feel free to swap in yellow or orange bell peppers, or even use diced carrots for a different flavor.

Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, consider a cashew cheese or omit it. For a change, crumbled goat cheese works well too!

How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?

Cooking ground beef might seem simple, but there are some key points to keep your meat tender and flavorful. It’s essential to break it up well while cooking so it browns evenly.

• Start with a hot skillet and enough oil to prevent sticking.
• Add chopped onion and garlic first to develop a base flavor. Cook until softened.
• Then, increase the heat and add the beef, cooking it in small batches if your skillet is crowded.
• Let it sit for a minute before turning it, allowing a nice browning on one side.
• As it cooks, continue to break it apart with a spatula until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes total.

How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your dish in about 30-35 minutes. Quick and easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil:

Start by pouring the olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. This will help everything cook nicely without sticking.

2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Make sure to stir them often to prevent burning!

3. Add the Ground Beef:

Next, toss in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned and fully cooked. It should look nice and brown!

4. Mix in the Vegetables and Spices:

Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3-5 minutes, letting the vegetables get tender and mix well with the meat.

5. Add the Spinach:

Fold in the baby spinach and stir everything together until the spinach wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. It adds a lovely green color and nutrition!

6. Finish and Garnish:

Remove your skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions on top for extra flavor and a pretty presentation.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is now ready to serve! Enjoy it warm on its own or over rice or couscous for a hearty meal. Happy eating!

Can I Use Substitute for Ground Beef?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian option. If substituting with turkey or chicken, keep in mind that they are leaner, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil or adjust the seasonings to your taste.

What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?

If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or even crumbled ricotta as a substitute. For a lactose-free option, try using a plant-based feta alternative or simply skip cheese altogether for a lighter dish.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli based on your preferences. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that all veggies are tender but not overcooked.