Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry (Printable Page)
# What You Need:
→ For the Stir-Fry
01 -
1 lb ground beef (85% lean or higher)
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 small onion, finely chopped
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
06 -
1 small zucchini, diced
07 -
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
08 -
½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp dried oregano
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
13 -
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
16 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Toppings & Optional Add-Ins
17 -
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
18 -
¼ cup toasted pine nuts
19 -
½ tsp sumac for extra tang (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
02 -
Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
03 -
Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Add cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes.
04 -
Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Top with crumbled feta cheese and optional pine nuts for extra crunch.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
For the best texture, use 85% lean ground beef—it has enough fat for flavor but won’t be greasy.
02 -
Let the beef brown without stirring too much to develop rich, caramelized flavors.
03 -
Add fresh lemon juice and parsley at the end for a burst of brightness.
04 -
If serving with rice or quinoa, cook it ahead for a fast and easy meal.