This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, colorful veggies, and delightful spices. It’s quick to make and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how easy it is to put together! Throw in some pita bread on the side, and you’ve got a perfect meal that makes me feel like I’m on a sunny Mediterranean vacation. ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, offering a hearty texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Baby Spinach: I love using baby spinach for its delicate flavor. Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives if you want something sturdier. You could also use frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add freshness and sweetness. You can swap them with diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor. For added sweetness, consider using grape tomatoes, which are similar.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a wonderful tanginess. If you need dairy-free options, try crumbled cashew cheese or omit the cheese altogether. You could also substitute with goat cheese for a similar flavor profile.
Spices: Oregano and basil are classic Mediterranean herbs. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning can be a great all-in-one substitute. Fresh herbs are also a lovely addition if you have them on hand!
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Perfectly?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key to building the dish’s flavor. Pay attention to the heat and timing to avoid burning. Start with medium heat and gradually build up if needed.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; stir frequently.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent but not browned.
- If you see the garlic browning, lower the heat to prevent a bitter taste.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. So, in just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious Mediterranean stir fry ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create a lovely base for your stir fry!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you might want to drain it.
3. Add Vegetables and Spices:
Now, it’s time to add the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and fill your kitchen with delicious smells.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Once the veggies are looking good, stir in the chopped baby spinach. Keep mixing until the spinach wilts down, which should take around 2-3 minutes. This step adds the perfect color and nutrition boost to your stir fry!
5. Finish with Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the stir-fry for a tasty finish. If you’d like, you can also drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Mediterranean ground beef stir fry hot. Don’t forget to garnish it with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the protein you choose— for turkey or chicken, be sure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese or prefer a different flavor, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use crumbled tofu combined with a splash of lemon juice for a tangy taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of olive oil can help refresh the dish!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables’ density; for harder vegetables, add them a few minutes earlier so they soften nicely.
