This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal packed with flavors! You’ll enjoy juicy beef mixed with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices.
It’s super easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. I love tossing it with some rice or keeping it light with salad—a winner every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this dish to manage fat content. If you’re looking to lighten it up, try ground turkey or chicken instead. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for cooking due to its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will work. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add natural sweetness. If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes also work, though they may release more moisture. Drained canned tomatoes are also a good backup.
Zucchini and Asparagus: Both veggies cook quickly and are perfect for this stir-fry. Feel free to swap them with bell peppers, broccoli, or green beans based on your preferences or what’s in season.
Feta Cheese: I love how feta brings a tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can skip it or use nutritional yeast for added depth without milk!
How Can I Ensure the Vegetables Stay Crisp?
To keep your veggies crisp and vibrant, avoid overcooking them. Here are some tips:
- Use medium-high heat to quickly sauté the vegetables.
- Cook in batches if your pan is crowded, as overcrowding can steam them instead of stir-frying.
- Add sturdier vegetables first (like zucchini and asparagus) and softer ones (like tomatoes) later in the cooking process.
By following these tips, you’ll have a colorful, crunchy stir-fry every time!
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Time Needed:
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and another 20 minutes to cook everything to perfection. It’s fast, fresh, and full of flavor!
Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. This will give your stir-fry that lovely, sautéed flavor!
2. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes. While it cooks, season it with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and optional smoked paprika. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, keeping the flavors in mind for the next steps!
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add your chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 minutes or until they’re fragrant and the onion is slightly softened. This will add a delicious base flavor to your stir-fry.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the diced zucchini, asparagus pieces, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be tender yet still crisp, and wait until the tomatoes are starting to blister a bit for extra flavor!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for a couple more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. This is where all those flavors come together!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and the juice of half a lemon if you decided to use it. The lemon adds a fresh zing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry warm, garnished with crumbled feta cheese on top. It’s delicious on its own or served over rice, couscous, or a bed of fresh greens!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes work wonderfully, you can substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preferences or what’s in season.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Cook the ground beef and vegetables just before serving for the best flavor and freshness.
What Can I Serve with This Stir-Fry?
This stir-fry pairs perfectly with rice, couscous, or quinoa. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a simple salad!
