This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is full of flavor and packed with veggies. With simple ingredients like beef, bell peppers, and olives, it makes dinner a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually opt for 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and fat. If you prefer a leaner meat, turkey or chicken can work too, but they will taste a bit different.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great nutrition and color. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach is a good substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and burst in your mouth. If they aren’t in season, standard tomatoes can be used, but chop them finely. You could also try sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a nice tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or omit it altogether; the dish will still taste great!
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky if you’re not paying attention. Here are a few tips:
- Use a medium heat setting to avoid burning the meat while ensuring it cooks through.
- Break apart the beef well with a spatula as it cooks; this helps it cook evenly.
- It’s done when there’s no pink left, and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer if unsure; it should read 160°F (71°C).
Following these tips will help you get perfectly cooked beef every time!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding your ingredients, so they cook evenly.
2. Sauté the Onion:
If you’re using onion, add the chopped onion first and sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it’s softened. This will add a nice base flavor to your dish.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not burnt, so keep an eye on it!
4. Cook the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which usually takes around 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
5. Seasoning Time:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together so that all the spices coat the beef well.
6. Add Tomatoes:
Next, add your halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes, just until they start to soften.
7. Toss in Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until it wilts down.
8. Finish with Feta:
Once everything is well mixed and cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the stir fry.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with sliced green onions and serve your Mediterranean stir fry hot. It pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your cooking! This dish is not only quick but also bursts with flavors that will transport you to the Mediterranean coast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. You might want to add a bit more seasoning or herbs to enhance the taste.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try crumbled goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, use vegan feta or simply omit the cheese; the dish will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Stir Fry?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even eggplant would all work well here. Just remember to adjust cooking times for different vegetables to achieve the desired tenderness.
