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Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

5.1 from 16 reviews

A flavorful Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs. This quick and hearty dish features tender ground beef sautéed with bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives, finished with tangy lemon juice and a sprinkle of feta and pine nuts for added texture and taste. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal with Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or higher)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Toppings & Optional Add-Ins:

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
  • ½ tsp sumac for extra tang (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: 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.
  3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Add cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  4. Finish with Freshness: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Top with crumbled feta cheese and optional pine nuts for extra crunch.

Notes

  • Adjust the seasoning according to taste, especially the salt and spice levels.
  • For a leaner option, use extra-lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
  • Sumac adds a nice tangy flavor if available, but you can omit it if not.
  • Serve this dish with warm pita bread, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.
  • To make this recipe gluten free, ensure all added ingredients like spices and toppings are gluten free certified.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean ground beef, stir-fry, quick dinner, healthy beef recipe, Greek-inspired, feta cheese, zucchini, bell pepper