Looking for a quick, healthy, and protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is your go-to recipe! Made in just one pan, it features lean ground beef, colorful veggies, fragrant herbs and spices, and a savory Mediterranean-inspired sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a hearty lunch.
This dish is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs. Serve it over rice, quinoa, couscous, or wrap it in lettuce for a lighter option. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, it’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 400g lean ground beef (or 80/20 blend)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15ml)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (70g)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (9g)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (150g)
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (200g)
- 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp ground cumin (2.5g)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (2.5g)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (1g)
- ½ tsp dried oregano (1g)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (30g)
- 100ml beef broth
- 50g Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Serving Ideas:
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Pita bread or lettuce wraps
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add red onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Spices
Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Mix in tomato paste and pour in beef broth. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Remove from heat. Stir in Kalamata olives. Garnish with parsley and feta cheese if using. Serve over grains or wrap in lettuce leaves.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving, approx. 4 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Tips & Tricks
- Use quality olives – Kalamata adds authentic flavor, but green olives work too.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon – it adds warmth and depth.
- Make it vegetarian – Swap ground beef for lentils or chickpeas.
- Spice it up – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.
- Add freshness – A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the dish.
Creative Variations
- Breakfast Bowl: Top with a fried egg for a hearty morning meal.
- Eggplant Edition: Add diced eggplant for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Salad Wraps: Serve over romaine lettuce with tahini drizzle.
- Stuffed Pitas: Fill warm pita bread and top with tzatziki.
What to Serve with It
- Warm pita bread
- Greek salad
- Tzatziki sauce
- Couscous or quinoa
This Mediterranean stir fry is an easy and flexible recipe that you’ll return to again and again. Healthy, satisfying, and loaded with flavor!