Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry with Olives & Feta in 30 Minutes
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry with Olives & Feta is a quick and healthy dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This recipe combines tender ground beef, savory olives, and creamy feta cheese, delivering a meal that is both delicious and nutritious.
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This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. With colorful veggies and bold Mediterranean flavors, it’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. Plus, it’s easily customizable with whatever you have on hand.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Ground Beef (substitute with turkey for a healthier alternative)
- 1 cup Olives (Kalamata or green olives are ideal)
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (use dairy-free if needed)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin (adds warm, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (regular paprika can be used)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley, can substitute with basil or oregano)
- 1 medium Zucchini (can substitute with eggplant or spinach)
- 1 medium Bell Peppers (orange, yellow, or red)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or use grapeseed or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (or lime juice for a twist)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the zucchini and bell pepper into small pieces. Slice the olives and crumble the feta cheese. Set them aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Season it with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir the chopped zucchini and bell peppers into the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in Olives and Feta: Mix in the olives and feta cheese. Allow them to heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Finish with Herbs and Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice. This adds brightness to your stir-fry.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry warm alongside quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.
How to Serve Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. You can also serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a light meal. Garnish with extra feta and fresh herbs for a stunning presentation.
How to Store Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave it until warm.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry Perfect
- Quality of Meat: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier option.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables add vibrant flavors to your stir-fry.
- Don’t Overcook: To retain the crunch of your veggies, avoid overcooking them.
Flavor Variations
- Protein Choices: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey to switch things up.
- Vegetable Options: Customize the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge—try adding mushrooms, spinach, or green beans.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and meats ahead of time for a quick cooking process.
- Leave Some Fat: Don’t drain the fat completely from the meat in the pan; this adds flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your stir-fry before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQs About Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry
1. Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. Just note that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat used.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
3. What can I serve with this stir-fry?
This stir-fry is versatile and pairs well with various sides such as rice, couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Feel free to get creative based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry with Olives & Feta offers a flavorful and quick solution for busy dinners. With its rich Mediterranean flavors and the flexibility to adjust ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it tonight and immerse yourself in the delicious tastes of the Mediterranean!
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry
Ingredients
Method
- Start by chopping the zucchini and bell pepper into small pieces. Slice the olives and crumble the feta cheese. Set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Season it with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir the chopped zucchini and bell peppers into the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Mix in the olives and feta cheese. Allow them to heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice. This adds brightness to your stir-fry.
- Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-fry warm alongside quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.