This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal! Packed with spices, tomatoes, and veggies, it brings vibrant flavors to your table in no time.
I love how easy it is to whip up after a long day, and the colorful veggies make it look fancy. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a dish that brings a little sunshine to dinner? ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish a hearty base. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want it vegetarian, substitute with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Zucchini: This adds a lovely texture. If zucchini isn’t available, try bell peppers or even eggplant. They’ll bring their unique flavors to the dish, too!
Cherry Tomatoes: They are juicy and sweet, but you can replace them with diced regular tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes if you prefer. Just drain them before adding.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika create a warm, earthy flavor. If you want a different kick, try using chili powder or coriander. Adjust according to your taste preference!
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked Without Drying It Out?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a medium-high heat but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Season right away with salt and pepper to boost flavor.
- Break the meat apart gently with a spoon to ensure even cooking—don’t overwork it!
- Once it’s no longer pink, remove it from the skillet quickly to avoid it drying out.
Following these steps will give you perfectly juicy beef in your stir-fry!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Cooked rice or couscous, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and season it well with salt and black pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked—this should take about 5–6 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, keeping any rendered fat in the pan for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped red onion and sauté for about 2–3 minutes or until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.
4. Cook the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in the tomato paste, then return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Mix everything together well and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Finish with Parsley:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a bright and fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon the delectable stir-fry over cooked rice or couscous. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for that finishing touch! Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb work well as substitutes. If you prefer a meatless option, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they stay tender and vibrant.
What Can I Serve with This Stir-Fry?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with cooked rice or couscous. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal!