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Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry featured image showcasing the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients of this healthy and delicious meal.

Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

This quick and easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is packed with flavor and avoids a soggy texture. By browning the beef properly and adding vegetables in stages, you can create a delicious and healthy meal in under 30 minutes. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with every bite!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spoon
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Colander (optional, for draining beef)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Bloom the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Incorporate the Vegetables: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften but still hold their shape.
  4. Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Remove from heat and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the vegetables. Adding vegetables in stages ensures they cook evenly and don't become soggy. Blooming the spices in hot oil enhances their flavor. Serve with couscous or quinoa for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can substitute the vegetables with other Mediterranean favorites, such as eggplant or yellow squash.