Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

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If you’ve ever wished for a quick dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience, let me introduce you to my Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry. I stumbled upon this recipe on one of those crazy weeknights when I needed something hearty, nourishing, and fast. What started as a “clean out the fridge” experiment has turned into a staple in my weekly rotation.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether it’s zucchini that needs saving, bell peppers that are just about ripe, or leftover rice sitting in the fridge, this stir fry welcomes it all. With the bold, herby flavor profile of Mediterranean cuisine and the satisfaction of a comforting, warm bowl of savory beef and veggies, it ticks all the boxes.

I’ve paired this stir fry with couscous, quinoa, or even stuffed it into pita bread with a dollop of hummus. Every version sings with flavor, and it’s always met with a clean plate. It’s light yet filling, aromatic yet uncomplicated. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep sessions.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s loaded with vegetables, so it’s a great way to sneak in nutrition without even trying. The Mediterranean flavors, thanks to garlic, oregano, and a splash of lemon juice, are both vibrant and comforting. You can customize the veggies based on what you have, and it works equally well with ground turkey or chicken. This recipe is gluten-free if served with rice or gluten-free grains, and it’s a great way to get more whole foods into your meals.

Looking for other wholesome and comforting ideas? Check out the Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet, One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, or the Giant Zucchini Parmesan.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: The foundation of the dish. Rich, flavorful, and protein-packed, it provides a hearty base for the stir fry.

Zucchini: Adds moisture, a touch of sweetness, and bulks up the stir fry with nutritious volume.

Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: Offer a mild sweetness and beautiful color contrast, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Red Onion: Slightly pungent and sweet when cooked, this aromatic brings depth to the flavor.

Garlic: A Mediterranean essential, garlic adds robust aroma and savory undertones.

Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with juicy sweetness and balance the savoriness of the beef.

Spinach: Stirred in at the end, it wilts perfectly into the dish, adding a nutritious green touch.

Olive Oil: The ideal cooking fat for a Mediterranean profile, bringing richness and flavor.

Oregano and Paprika: These seasonings are key to giving the dish its distinctive Mediterranean taste.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.

Lemon Juice: A final splash brightens up the entire dish with a tangy finish.

How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped red onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Season and Wilt the Spinach

Sprinkle in oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Add the spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until wilted.

Step 5: Brighten and Serve

Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stir fry. Give it one last toss and serve hot with your favorite base or as is.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This recipe is easy to customize. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or lamb if you’re looking for a leaner or more distinct flavor. Prefer a vegetarian option? Use chickpeas or crumbled tofu in place of meat. You can also toss in eggplant, mushrooms, or green beans depending on what’s in your fridge. Don’t have fresh spinach? Kale or Swiss chard work just as well.

As for spices, try adding a pinch of cumin or sumac for a unique twist, or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. If you’re out of lemon juice, red wine vinegar makes a great stand-in for that acidic balance.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry over fluffy couscous, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. It’s also wonderful wrapped in warm pita bread with a smear of tzatziki or hummus. Want to keep it light? Enjoy it on its own or spoon it over a bed of greens for a protein-packed salad.

Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a simple cucumber yogurt salad on the side. This dish makes an excellent base for a Mediterranean-style bowl topped with olives, feta, and roasted chickpeas.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it perfect for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or pop it in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of water or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The veggies may soften slightly, but the taste remains delicious.

FAQs

How do I make Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry ahead of time?

You can chop all your vegetables and store them in containers, and even cook the beef ahead of time. Assemble and finish cooking when you’re ready to eat. It’s great for meal prepping for the week.

Can I freeze Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently to preserve the texture of the vegetables.

Is Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free if you serve it with rice or gluten-free grains like quinoa. Just make sure your seasonings and any store-bought broths or sauces are also gluten-free.

What other veggies can I use in Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry?

Feel free to use eggplant, mushrooms, kale, green beans, or even broccoli. The stir fry is flexible and works well with most vegetables.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, you might also enjoy the Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet for another hearty and veggie-packed skillet meal. Craving comfort? The One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta delivers creamy satisfaction. And if you’re looking to use up some extra zucchini, the Giant Zucchini Parmesan will not disappoint.

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Don’t let this flavorful dish be a one-time meal! Pin this Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it when you need a quick, delicious dinner. Share the recipe with friends and family—whether by text, email, or social media. If you tried it and loved it, leave a comment or review to help others find their new favorite meal too.

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