A Mediterranean Twist on a Weeknight Classic
When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience of a stir-fry. But what if you could take it a step further with bold Mediterranean flavors, fresh ingredients, and wholesome goodness? That’s exactly what you get with this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry—a nutritious, satisfying, and flavor-packed dish made in just one skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Stir-Fry
- Fast & Flavorful: Dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan, one spoon—done!
- Mediterranean Diet Friendly: Rich in vegetables, olive oil, and lean protein.
- Customizable: Great with couscous, rice, or pita.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple overview of what goes into this Mediterranean dinner recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Use lean beef (90/10 preferred) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Extra virgin for authentic flavor |
| Red onion | 1, thinly sliced | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | A Mediterranean must-have |
| Zucchini | 1 cup, sliced | Adds volume and nutrients |
| Bell pepper | 1, sliced | Any color works |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | Juicy pops of acidity |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups | Wilts down quickly, rich in iron |
| Kalamata olives | 1/3 cup, sliced | Salty and bold |
| Feta cheese | To taste | Optional topping |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | For brightness |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Earthy, classic Mediterranean flavor |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 tsp | Adds depth |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Season wisely |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano, and cook until browned (about 6–7 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes. Add zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened but not mushy.
3. Add Spinach and Olives
Stir in spinach and olives, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
4. Return the Beef & Finish
Add the cooked beef back into the skillet. Mix everything together and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve with warm pita bread, over couscous, or with a side of hummus.
Nutritional Highlights (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Rich in Vitamin C, Iron, and healthy fats
Variations to Try
- Add Chickpeas: Great for extra fiber and plant protein.
- Use Ground Turkey: Lower fat alternative.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or harissa paste.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or just on its own.
Pair It With
- Lemon Herb Couscous
- Greek Salad
- Toasted Pita Chips
- Tzatziki or Hummus
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the vegetables—keep them slightly crisp.
- Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding.
- Add lemon zest for even more brightness.
- Double the recipe for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is everything a modern dinner should be—quick, healthy, and brimming with global flavor. It’s a reliable go-to for busy weeknights but fancy enough to serve to guests with a side of warm pita and a chilled glass of white wine.
If you love stir-fries and crave Mediterranean flavor, this one deserves a spot in your weekly dinner lineup.