🌿 Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
📖 Description
This Mediterranean-inspired stir fry is a wholesome and flavorful dish combining ground beef, fresh vegetables, garlic, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Packed with protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, it’s a quick 30-minute one-pan meal that brings the rich flavors of the Mediterranean diet to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
🥘 Ingredients for Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
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1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 zucchini, sliced into half moons
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup baby spinach or kale
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp cumin
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional topping)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
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Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Stir in bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 5–6 minutes until tender.
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Add cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook another 3–4 minutes.
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Toss in spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt slightly.
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Remove from heat and top with feta cheese, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
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Serve warm with rice, quinoa, pita bread, or as a low-carb bowl.
📝 Notes
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You can swap ground beef with ground lamb, chicken, or turkey.
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Use fresh herbs like basil, dill, or mint for added Mediterranean freshness.
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If you like spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes.
💡 Tips
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For a meal prep option, store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
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To make it low-carb, serve over cauliflower rice.
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Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.
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Cook vegetables until just tender to keep them vibrant and crisp.
🍽 Servings
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Makes 4 servings
🔢 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 310 kcal
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Protein: 23 g
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Carbohydrates: 10 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Fat: 20 g
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Saturated Fat: 6 g
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Sodium: 350 mg
🌱 Health Benefits
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High Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.
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Rich in Vegetables: Provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
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Mediterranean Diet Inspired: Heart-healthy olive oil and fresh herbs.
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Low Carb Option: Helps with weight management and blood sugar balance.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace ground beef with chickpeas, lentils, or crumbled tofu.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Rice, quinoa, couscous, pita, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for low-carb.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, but without spinach and feta (add fresh when reheating).
Q: How do I keep the beef from drying out?
A: Don’t overcook it—remove from heat once browned and juicy.
Q: Is this kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Just skip the stronger spices and chili flakes.