This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a colorful dish filled with vibrant veggies and juicy beef. It’s quick to make and bursts with tasty spices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat would work well without sacrificing flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives this stir fry a vibrant color and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes add brightness to the dish. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute them with diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta is great for a tangy kick. If you’re dairy-free, you can try a vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether! Another option could be crumbled goat cheese, which is also delicious.
How Do I Properly Sauté Garlic and Onion?
Sautéing garlic and onion is essential for building flavor in this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This allows the oil to warm without burning.
- Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Don’t rush this step!
- Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter. Lower the heat if needed.
These steps set a flavorful base for your stir fry. Enjoy crafting your delicious dish!
How to Make Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean ground beef stir fry takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy evenings when you need a flavorful dinner in a hurry.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spatula, break it apart and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring the spices coat the beef evenly. This step adds wonderful Mediterranean flavor to your stir fry!
4. Incorporate the Veggies:
Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften. Stir occasionally to mix those colors and flavors together!
5. Finish with Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Let it sit for about a minute so the cheese can melt slightly, enhancing the creaminess of the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve! Plate the stir fry and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Mediterranean ground beef stir fry hot and savor every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that chicken might take a bit less time to cook through, so keep an eye on it while sautéing.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions. Just chop them up and add them after the onions and garlic have softened, allowing them to cook a bit before adding the ground meat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or pop it in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent it from drying out.
