Description
A warm and inviting stir fry filled with ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and Mediterranean flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb ground beef (finely ground, well-seasoned)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: crumbled feta or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the produce: Slice the onions, peppers, and zucchini; halve the cherry tomatoes and olives so everything cooks evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When shimmering, add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until nicely browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Build the flavor: Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Pour in the broth, reduce heat to medium, and simmer until vegetables are tender but still bright, about 6 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Stir in lemon juice and parsley, season to taste, and top with crumbled feta if using. Serve hot over rice, roasted squash, or tucked into warm pita.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for even cooking, and do not overcrowd the pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean